The 2023 Clos Saouma Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc MAGIS is an extraordinary white Rhône from Rotem and Mounir Saouma, the husband-and-wife team behind the renowned Burgundian house Lucien Le Moine. Sourced primarily from the limestone-rich Pierredon vineyard, with additional fruit from Courthézon, the blend of Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Roussanne and Bourboulenc is organically farmed, whole-bunch pressed and wild fermented before spending 18–24 months on full lees in oak. The nose is beautifully layered, offering white peach, yellow apple and candied citrus alongside beeswax, verbena, toasted nuts and striking stony minerality.
On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied with a creamy texture, vibrant freshness and exceptional mineral precision. Rich orchard fruit, citrus and subtle spice are balanced by saline tension and remarkable length, finishing with notes of hazelnut and crushed stone. Combining the generosity of Châteauneuf-du-Pape with the precision of fine white Burgundy, this is a profound, age-worthy white. Wine Spectator awarded the 2023 vintage 96 points.
Ben’s Recommendation:
The 2023 Clos Saouma Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc MAGIS is a superb match for lobster, roasted turbot, scallops, Bresse chicken, creamy mushroom dishes or aged Comté. Enjoy now with a short decant, or cellar confidently through 2040+ as its richness, texture and complexity continue to evolve.
