Xavier Vignon : Arcane IX L'Hermite 2016

The great elegance of an intense Gigondas wine that is awaiting to be cellared

The estate

For over twenty years, the exceptional winegrower, Xavier Vignon, has been considered one of the finest experts in the Southern Rhône Valley. Each wine by Xavier Vignon accurately reflects the desire to reveal the identity of the fine Rhône Valley terroirs, all while expressing his own identity: the Xavier Vignon identity. His exclusive innovations only enhance his creativity, such as the Arcane collection, which promises to take wine lovers on an incredible sensory wine tasting experience.

The vineyard

All the wines by Xavier Vignon stem from the Rhône Valley. For the Arcane collection, the winemaker meticulously selects his terroirs in order to explore their full potential. The 2016 Arcane IX L'Hermite is the result of a meticulous selection of 25 different plots of land that all enjoy an excellent sun exposure and are located in the beautiful terroirs of the Dentelles de Montmirail, in the Gigondas appellation.

The wine

This wine is the perfect metaphor for an old man who has acquired a wealth of invaluable knowledge and wisdom throughout his life: by bringing together 25 different plots in a unique blend and through a completely innovative vinification process, this Gigondas wine reaches an apogee.

Vinification and ageing

The extremely precise vinification processes carried out by Xavier Vignon testify to his know-how and his knowledge regarding the Rhône Valley’s grape varieties. Muscardin and Picpoul Noir are vinified and aged in un-toasted barrels, while Grenache, Mourvèdre and Syrah are fermented together in concrete tanks and then aged in cone-shaped truncated wooden vats. Xavier Vignon has done an extraordinary job of submerging certain barrels in wine for 12 months. This technique protected the Grenache from any external oxidation.

The blend

Grenache (80%), Mourvèdre (7%), Syrah (5%), Muscardin (4%) and Picpoul Noir (4%).

Arcane IX L'Hermite 2016: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Nose

The aromatic bouquet reveals aromas of blackberries, spices and herbs of Provence.

Palate

Arcane IX L'Hermite 2016 embodies an elegant, pure and silky wine. Stemming from low-yielding vines, Xavier Vignon's 2016 Arcane XI L'Hermite is a Gigondas wine that showcases an impressive richness and concentration. An grandiose Gigondas wine that is undoubtedly made for ageing.

Service and cellaring

Xavier Vignon's Arcane IX L'Hermite 2016 will reveal its full aromatic potential until 2030/2035. For an optimal tasting experience, serve between 15 and 17 degrees.