Xavier Vignon Arcane Les Amoureux 2016

Drink it now or cellar for up to 10 years. It is recommended to decant it for an hour. Originally from Picardy, Xavier Vignon is a renowned French winemaker who, after graduating in oenology in Montpellier, and working as a consultant around the world, decided to focus his energies on the production of his wines, choosing the Rhone Valley as his home. Arcane Les Amoureux is a blend composed mainly of Grenache (from centuries-old vines) with additions of 10% Mourvèdre, 5% Cinsault, and 5% Caladoc from the 5 cru vineyards. After the harvest and a long maceration, the finished wine rests for 15 months in a mixture of new barrels, small concrete tanks, and vats before bottling. In the glass, the wine reveals a bright and intense color, with dark red tones and an expressive and broad aromatic profile with notes of dark cherry and blackberry, thyme, garrigue, and spices. On the palate, it is soft and concentrated with soft tannins and a vein of acidity that balances the taste. The finish is long, persistent, and warm. It is excellent with roast lamb with herbs, roast duck, or beef ribs.