Grape Variety
Roussanne
"roo-SAHN"
Wine Styles
Sparkling
Light White
Full White
Aromatic
Rosé
Light Red
Medium Red
Full Red
DessertAbout Roussanne
Origin
Rhône Valley, France
History
Roussanne is a white wine grape originating from the Rhône Valley in France. Its name is derived from the French word 'roux,' meaning 'russet,' referring to the reddish-brown color of its ripe berries. Traditionally, Roussanne has been blended with Marsanne to produce the white wines of the northern Rhône, such as Hermitage, Crozes-Hermitage, and Saint-Joseph. In the southern Rhône, it is one of the permitted varieties in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Over time, Roussanne has been planted in other regions, including the Languedoc-Roussillon, Provence, and various New World wine regions like California and Australia. Despite its susceptibility to viticultural challenges, Roussanne is valued for its aromatic complexity and aging potential.
Appearance
Small to medium-sized, oval berries with a reddish-brown hue when fully ripe, growing in compact clusters.
Growing Traits
Roussanne is a late-ripening variety characterized by erratic production and susceptibility to diseases such as powdery mildew and rot. It thrives in well-exposed, stony, clay-limestone soils. The grape's high acidity and phenolic content contribute to its excellent aging potential, allowing it to develop complex flavors over time.
Wine Characteristics
Body
3/5
Sweetness
1/5
Tannin
0/5
Acidity
3/5
Alcohol
3/5
Medium to full-bodied with a rich and oily texture, often exhibiting a vibrant acidity. Typically dry, though off-dry versions exist, showcasing versatility in winemaking styles. Negligible tannin levels, as it is a white grape variety primarily used in white wine production. Medium to high acidity, contributing to its crispness and excellent aging potential. Moderate to high alcohol content, generally ranging from 13.5% to 15%, enhancing its rich and full-bodied nature.
Taste Profile
Meyer lemon
Apricot
Beeswax
Chamomile
Brioche
Roussanne wines are known for their aromatic complexity and rich flavor profile. Common tasting notes include Meyer lemon, apricot, and beeswax, with subtle hints of chamomile and brioche. The wines often exhibit a rich, oily texture balanced by medium to high acidity, contributing to their aging potential. With age, Roussanne can develop additional layers of complexity, including notes of honey and roasted nuts.
Food Pairing
Roussanne's rich texture and aromatic complexity make it a versatile partner for various dishes. It pairs well with seafood, particularly lobster and crab, as well as poultry dishes like roast chicken or turkey. The wine's acidity complements creamy sauces and rich cheeses, while its herbal notes enhance dishes featuring fresh herbs. Additionally, Roussanne pairs well with spicy cuisines, such as Thai or Indian, as the wine's body and acidity balance the heat.
Growing Regions
France
Rhône ValleyProvenceLanguedoc-RoussillonSavoie
United States
CaliforniaWashingtonTexas
Australia
South AustraliaVictoria
Italy
Tuscany
Spain
Catalonia
Notable Wines & Producers
Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc Vieilles Vignes
Château Beaucastel
Hermitage Blanc
M. Chapoutier
Crozes-Hermitage Blanc
Domaine Alain Graillot
Saint-Joseph Blanc
Domaine Yves Cuilleron
Sine Qua Non Roussanne
Sine Qua Non
Roussanne FAQ
Common questions about this grape variety
What is the origin of Roussanne?
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Rhône Valley, France
Is Roussanne wine full bodied?
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Roussanne has a body level of 3 out of 5. Which means that Roussanne is Moderate bodied.
Is Roussanne wine dry or sweet?
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Roussanne has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Roussanne is Dry.
Where is Roussanne wine from?
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Rhône Valley, France
Where is Roussanne grown?
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Roussanne is grown in France (Rhône Valley, Provence, Languedoc-Roussillon, Savoie)United States (California, Washington, Texas)Australia (South Australia, Victoria)Italy (Tuscany)Spain (Catalonia).
What is Roussanne like?
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Roussanne wines are known for their aromatic complexity and rich flavor profile. Common tasting notes include Meyer lemon, apricot, and beeswax, with subtle hints of chamomile and brioche. The wines often exhibit a rich, oily texture balanced by medium to high acidity, contributing to their aging potential. With age, Roussanne can develop additional layers of complexity, including notes of honey and roasted nuts.
What does Roussanne pair with?
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Roussanne's rich texture and aromatic complexity make it a versatile partner for various dishes. It pairs well with seafood, particularly lobster and crab, as well as poultry dishes like roast chicken or turkey. The wine's acidity complements creamy sauces and rich cheeses, while its herbal notes enhance dishes featuring fresh herbs. Additionally, Roussanne pairs well with spicy cuisines, such as Thai or Indian, as the wine's body and acidity balance the heat.
What does Roussanne taste like?
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Roussanne wines are known for their aromatic complexity and rich flavor profile. Common tasting notes include Meyer lemon, apricot, and beeswax, with subtle hints of chamomile and brioche. The wines often exhibit a rich, oily texture balanced by medium to high acidity, contributing to their aging potential. With age, Roussanne can develop additional layers of complexity, including notes of honey and roasted nuts.
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