Xavier Vignon : Arcane IX L'Hermite 2016

The great elegance of an intense Gigondas wine designed for ageing

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.

Winemaking and ageing

The extremely precise vinification processes carried out by Xavier Vignon testify to his know-how and his understanding of the Rhône Valley’s grape varieties. The Muscardin and Picpoul Noir are vinified and aged in un-toasted barrels, while the 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 oxidisation.

Blend

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

Characteristics and tasting tips for Arcane IX L'Hermite 2016

Tasting

Nose
The aromatic bouquet reveals scents of blackberries, spices and herbes de 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 unarguably made for ageing.

Service and storage

Xavier Vignon's Arcane IX L'Hermite 2016 will reveal its full aromatic potential up to 2030/2035. For the best tasting, serve between 15 and 17 degrees.