Roussanne: The Redhead

  • Native to Rhône region of France
  • Unusual russet color when ripe
  • Warm climates – rich wines – flavors of honey and pear, and full body
  • Cool climates – floral and delicate, herbal tea
  • Plantings in California, Texas, Washington and Australia, Crete, Tuscany, Spain
  • Late ripening and poor yielding, susceptible to vine diseases
  • Rounds out both white and red blends, makes then fuller and sweeter tasting, mellower
  • Often blended with Marsanne and sometimes Viognier
  • Can be a component of red Hermitage and Châteauneuf-du-Pape