Just a short drive northeast of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, is the satellite appellation of Vinsobres, which received AOC status in 2006 thanks to its unique terroir and numerous old vine plantings. In this charmed locale, the weather turns sunny, the air is infused with herbs and lavender and the climate, like Châteauneuf-du-Pape to the south, is comparatively Mediterranean. Although the land is particularly sandy and arid, large, round river rocks that were a product of pre-historic Alpine glaciers are scattered amongst the vines and function to retain moisture and ripen the grapes.  The famous Mistral, a strong wind that howls down the valley from Siberia, seasonally cools down the valley and retains acidity as well as protects the grapes from humidity and mold.  All of these factors coalesce to deliver a wine that is terroir-driven, packed with luscious fruit and balanced with excellent acidity. In fact, it is the unique geographic location of Domaine Chaume-Arnaud and their vineyards that really makes today’s wine so special.

 

All of the vines that comprise this blend were planted many years ago—the Grenache vines, the oldest, were originally planted in 1927, followed by the Syrah in 1956 and the Mourvèdre in 1969. Each of these vineyard plots possesses their own unique terroir. The Grenache and Mourvèdre vines are rooted in rocky clay and limestone and are situated on hillsides in direct sunlight with protection from the Mistral. The Syrah, on the other hand, is planted high on a plateau at 1,300 feet elevation where the vines were purposefully planted to endure the strong Mistral winds, which allows Syrah to retain acidity, freshness and spice that is so essential. These vines deliver the best fruit imaginable—small, tight clusters of concentrated berries that deliver a lush yet opulent wine of immense texture and elegance - perfect for ”La Cadene,” the estate’s most prized bottling. Owners, Valerie and her husband, Phillipe, have farmed these vines organically since 2002 and biodynamically since 2009. Valerie and Phillipe ferment and age all of their wines in concrete vats, which results in a purity that is impossible with even the gentlest of neutral oak influence. This varietal trifecta derived from unique terroir, natural farming and astute winemaking delivers a truly incredible wine that expresses deeply rich character, discernible texture and remarkable flavor.