Roussanne is an exquisite white wine varietal that originates from the Rhône Valley in France. It is a relatively rare grape variety, but its popularity has been on the rise in recent years. With its distinct floral aromas and flavors of peaches, pears, honey, nuts and hay, Roussanne can make some of the most complex and flavorful wines you will ever taste.
Roussanne wines are generally full-bodied with a rich texture and aromas of flowers and stone fruits. They can stand alone as a varietal or be blended with Chardonnay or Marsanne to create unique flavor profiles. Roussanne-based wines are usually best enjoyed within the first few years of bottling or after they have been cellared for 15 to 20 years. During this period, their flavors can becoe muted and need to be discovered through tasting.
In the United States, producers are making richer oak-aged Roussanne wines that are reminiscent of Chardonnay. These wines pair well with buttery meats such as lobster, crab, foie gras, and pâté. They can also be enjoyed with richer fish dishes like salmon or tuna steaks as well as creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert.
If you're looking for something special for your next dinner party or just want to try something new in terms of white wine varietals, Roussanne should definitely be at the top of your list! Not only does it offer some unique flavors and aromas that you won't find in other varieties of white wine but it also pairs wonderfully with various dishes – making it a great choice for any occasion!
Tasting Notes for Roussanne Wine
Roussanne wine is known for its complex, rich flavor profile. On the nose, you'll find floral aromas along with notes of peaches, pears and honey. On the palate, it has a creamy texture with flavors of nuts, hay and minerals. This white wine is often described as delicate on its own, but when blended with Marsanne it adds structure and body. For food pairings, it pairs well with dishes like roasted poultry or pork and creamy sauces.
When is the Best Time to Enjoy Roussanne Wine?
The best time to drink Roussanne is based on personal preference and the style of wine you're looking for. For those seeking fresh, vibrant fruit flavors and aromatics, Roussanne should be consumed within the first few years of bottling. For those looking for a more complex flavor profile, cellaring a bottle of Roussanne for 15-20 years will yield a more developed flavor. During the in-between period, the wines are closed down and their flavors and aromatics are difficult to find.
Pairing Roussanne Wine with Food
Roussanne is a white wine that is kown for its rich, creamy and buttery flavor. It pairs well with a range of dishes, including seafood such as lobster, crab, and oysters; poultry such as chicken and turkey; fatty meats such as foie gras and pâté; soft cheeses like Brie; and vegetables such as mushrooms, artichokes and squash. Oak-aged Roussanne wines from the US are especially delicious when paired with rich foods like these. Roussanne also pairs nicely with grilled fish or milder curries. To bring out the best in this wine, try serving it slightly chilled for a refreshing finish.
How Long Does Roussanne Wine Last?
Roussanne is a unique white wine known for its combination of richness, minerality, and balancing acids. This makes it an ideal candidate for aging and can be enjoyed up to 15 years or more after bottling, depending on how it has been stored. Its ability to stand up to new oak and stainless steel gves it a range of possible ageing times, so there is no definitive answer as to how long Roussanne will last. However, with proper storage and care, Roussanne can be aged for several years beyond its initial release date, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a wine that will continue to develop complexity over time.
Chilling Roussanne Wine
Yes, Roussanne should be chilled before serving. This Rhone variety of white wine is best served at a temperature of 45-55°F; this temperature range allows for the fullest expression of its flavor profile. Chill the wine for at least 30 minutes before serving to ensure that it is not too cold and that the flavors are still being expressed. Additionally, if you are storing Roussanne for longer periods, keep it in a cool, dark place.
Conclusion
Roussanne is a highly versatile and complex white wine variety that can be enjoyed both young and aged. Its floral aromas of peach, pear, honey, nuts and hay are balanced by mineral notes and a full body. In the Northern Rhône it is oftn blended with Marsanne to add structure and body. In the US, producers produce oak-aged wines that resemble Chardonnay. Roussanne pairs well with buttery meats like lobster, crab, foie gras and pâté for a truly indulgent experience. With its unique flavor profile and complexity, Roussanne is sure to become a favorite for all types of wine drinkers.
