The Roussanne
Grape
A white grape variety native to the Rhône Valley in France, valued for its richness and complexity, producing full-bodied wines with high acidity and flavors of pear, honey, and herbal tea. Roussanne is often blended with Marsanne to add depth and aging potential to the wines.
Roussanne
Grape History
Roussanne is a white wine grape that has a long and intriguing history dating back to the Rhone Valley in France. The exact origins of the grape are somewhat mysterious, but it is believed to have originated in the northern Rhone region, possibly in the town of Saint-Péray. The grape takes its name from the reddish-brown color of its skin when fully ripe, as "roux" means russet or reddish-brown in French.
Roussanne is known for being a challenging grape to grow, as it is susceptible to disease and can be low-yielding. Despite these challenges, Roussanne has gained popularity in both its homeland of France and in other wine regions around the world. Alongside Marsanne, it is one of the key grapes used in the production of white wines in the northern Rhone, particularly in the appellations of Hermitage, Crozes-Hermitage, and Saint-Joseph. In the southern Rhone, it is often blended with other grapes such as Grenache Blanc, Viognier, and Marsanne to create complex and aromatic white blends.
In addition to France, Roussanne is also cultivated in other wine regions such as California, Australia, and Italy. In California, it is particularly well-suited to the warm climates of regions like Paso Robles and Santa Barbara County. Australian producers have also had success with Roussanne, often blending it with other Rhone varietals to create unique and expressive wines.
Roussanne is valued for its rich texture, intense aromatics, and flavors of honey, pear, and honeysuckle. The wine is known for its aging potential, developing more complex flavors and aromas over time. It is often aged in oak barrels to add depth and complexity to the wine.
Looking towards the future, the popularity of Roussanne seems to be on the rise, with more winemakers exploring its potential both as a varietal wine and in blends. As consumers continue to seek out unique and diverse wines, Roussanne's distinctive characteristics and ability to express terroir make it an appealing choice for both wine enthusiasts and producers. With its ability to thrive in a variety of climates and produce high-quality wines with aging potential, Roussanne is likely to continue to carve out a place for itself in the world of wine for years to come.