Everything About Roussanne Grape
"roo-SAHN" 
Roussanne Description
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.
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.
Body
Sweetness
Tannin
Acidity
Alcohol
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.
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.
Regions
![[object Object] Region](/regions/france.png)
France
•Rhône Valley
•Provence
•Languedoc-Roussillon
•Savoie
![[object Object] Region](/regions/united_states.png)
United States
•California
•Washington
•Texas
![[object Object] Region](/regions/australia.png)
Australia
•South Australia
•Victoria
![[object Object] Region](/regions/italy.png)
Italy
•Tuscany
![[object Object] Region](/regions/spain.png)
Spain
•Catalonia
Notable Wines and 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
Rhône Valley, France
Roussanne has a body level of 3 out of 5. Which means that Roussanne is Moderate bodied.
Roussanne has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Roussanne is Dry.
Rhône Valley, France
Roussanne is grown in France (Rhône Valley, Provence, Languedoc-Roussillon, Savoie)United States (California, Washington, Texas)Australia (South Australia, Victoria)Italy (Tuscany)Spain (Catalonia).
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.
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.
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.