Arioso is a style of opera somewhere between an aria and a recital. We chose this name for our wine because it is evocative of both the ethereal and profound. Mounir Saouma’s story in the Châteauneuf-du-Pape started with a state sale of a small plot in Pignan, one of the most famous vineyard areas of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Within this first vineyard acquisition, Mounir has one plot of 100% Grenache planted in the 1930s which yields naturally at a miniscule 1 ton per acre. From these vines he produces Arioso. The wine is produced using whole clusters and undergoes an 11 day cold maceration before being aged for 3 years in 228 and 500 liter barrels, with no racking or added sulfites. Its smooth texture showcases dark berry and stony flavors, delivering both energy and a lifted sensation on the palate. Along the way, hints of spice and floral notes come and go, adding to the complexity. Its poised and effortless character makes it intriguing to envision how these wines will mature over time.


"Smoldering incense and salty iron share the stage with ripe red fruit and a lacquer of toasty cedar in this polished, expertly crafted red, which is texturally stunning, with extremely fine tannins effortlessly carrying the weight. The oak signature will continue to fade into the backdrop with a bit of cellaring, and the powerful, tightly wound core of graphite and fruit will unfurl, so patience will be rewarded. Beautiful and complex."

96 points - Wine Spectator