2019 Rotem & Mounir Saouma, Inopia Blanc, Côtes-du-Rhône Villages

Rotem & Mounir Saouma are famous in the wine world for being behind the project of Lucien Le Moine which is a micro-negociant in Burgundy making extremely fine wines at Premier Cru and Grand cru levels. More recently, they decided to purchase their own vineyards in the southern part of France in some superb terroir of the Chateauneuf-du-Pape and Côtes-du-Rhône Villages. One of the key points of difference with them is that 30% of their production is white wine in a region dominated by red wine production. To give some context, white represents only 3% of the total production in the region. Inopia is an experience.  It’s a fascinating wine that could even come close to a Burgundy, you can absolutely feel that their winemaking philosophy has its roots in Burgundy. Why do we like it? They are very dedicated to make the very best out of the grape material they have at hand and to not be afraid to experiment. Initially they worked with pièces (barrel from Burgundy of 228L), but they are now replaced by demi-muids (around 600L size barrel). The Inopia is a breathtaking white wine coming from low yielding fruit that remains undisturbed for 18 months after fermentation with the resulting wine bottled unfiltered and unfined. The blend is mostly Grenache Blanc, along with a touch of Roussanne, Marsanne, Bourboulenc, Clairette and Viognier grapes. Intensely perfumed and vibrant nose of citrus, yellow flowers and an almost salty note. The palate continues with the intensity of flavours and structure and with a beautifully balanced freshness. Grape            Marsanne, Roussanne Country        France                                   Region          Rhône Valley                        Vintage         2019