Rotem & Mounir Saouma – Châteauneuf-du-Pape Arioso 2019

Rotem & Mounir Saouma – Châteauneuf-du-Pape Arioso 2019

Saouma Arioso 2019 — southern soul, northern precision 

Rarely does a domaine build such a reputation in so short a time. Rotem & Mounir Saouma are not winemaking dynasties looking back over centuries of viticultural tradition — they are passionate lovers of wine who were willing to invest everything in their project: time, money, dedication. The results speak for themselves: wines of exceptional purity and personality that immediately establish themselves as a singular voice in the dense world of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. 

The 2019 vintage is regarded in Châteauneuf-du-Pape as classically Mediterranean: warm, dry, generous in fruit — but through early harvesting and biodynamic farming, the Saoumas preserved the freshness and elegance that define their wines. The Arioso 2019 carries the southern sun without being overwhelmed by it. 

How does it taste? 

The colour is a brilliant, deep ruby with violet reflections. The nose captivates with a pure, expressive aromatics: first cherries, red berries and fresh raspberry, then lavender, dried garrigue herbs, orange zest and a hint of sandalwood. On the palate, the Arioso 2019 shows a silky texture and lively freshness one does not necessarily expect from a warm vintage. The tannins are fine and well-integrated; the finish is long, spicy and warm, with a pleasant echo of cherry and lavender. Decanting for 45–60 minutes is recommended. Peak 2024–2032. 

Serving temperature: 16–18°C · Drinking window: now through 2032 

Perfect with 

A wine for the Provençal table: roasted leg of lamb with rosemary and garlic, braised beef cheeks with olives and thyme, duck breast with cherry sauce, grilled côte de bœuf over wood fire. Wonderful also with aged cheeses from southern France: Pélardon, Picodon, Banon. For lovers of Mediterranean cuisine: a lamb tagine with apricots and ras el hanout. 

The critics agree — Saouma Arioso 2019 delights 

Wine Advocate (95/100): “An elegant, expressive Châteauneuf of great complexity and freshness — a wine that clearly exceeds its quality tier.” Antonio Galloni (Vinous, 94/100): “The Arioso 2019 displays the characteristic precision and purity of the Saouma philosophy: wines of personality, not muscle.” James Suckling (95/100): “Delightfully fruity, silky and balanced — a Châteauneuf-du-Pape that delivers immediate pleasure yet still has potential.”