Rotem & Mounir Saouma

If you’re not familiar with the Saoumas, you might know their Burgundy négociant business, Lucien Le Moine. The couple don’t own land in the Côte d’Or, but they have bought some prime parcels of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Mounir’s methods are unusual: 2-week cold maceration; long, slow fermentation; long élevage on the full lees with regular stirring; no racking, pumping, fining, or filtration. He even uses a continuous press for both colours. The results are incredible – taut, intense, structural, mineral expressions of Châteauneuf that justify their high price tags. Their Côtes-du-Rhône Villages wines called Inopia are an inexpensive way to experience their unique style.