Roussanne Grape Variety

Origin and History

Roussanne is a white grape variety originating from the Rhône Valley in France. Its name likely comes from "roux," meaning "russet" in French, due to the reddish-gold tint the grapes acquire when ripe. It has been cultivated since ancient times, primarily in the Rhône wine region, where it plays a key role in iconic wines like Hermitage, Crozes-Hermitage, and Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

Historically, Roussanne faced near extinction in the mid-20th century due to its challenging cultivation process. However, dedicated vintners revived its presence by leveraging its unique flavour profile and blending potential.

Characteristics

Viticultural Traits:

·        Colour: Golden-yellow with a russet hue when fully ripe

·        Vigour: Moderate to high, but susceptible to mildew and wind damage

·        Ripening: Late-season ripener with low yields

Wine Profile:

·        Aromas: Floral notes like honeysuckle, chamomile, and acacia

·        Flavours: Pear, apricot, quince, and herbal undertones

·        Structure: Full-bodied, with fresh acidity and a waxy, creamy texture

·        Ageing Potential: High; gains complexity with oak ageing and cellar maturation

Food Pairings

Roussanne's rich, aromatic profile pairs well with a range of dishes:

·        Seafood: Grilled lobster, scallops, and prawns

·        Poultry: Roast chicken with herbs or turkey with light sauces

·        Cheese: Aged goat cheese, Brie, and Comté

·        Vegetarian: Mushroom risotto, creamy pasta, and vegetable gratins

·        International Cuisine: Moroccan tagines, Thai curries, and Mediterranean salads

Development and Cultivation Worldwide

Europe:

·        France: Predominantly in the Rhône Valley (Hermitage, Saint-Joseph, and Châteauneuf-du-Pape). Also found in Provence and Languedoc.

·        Italy: Limited but growing interest in Tuscany, where it is blended with other aromatic whites.

·        Spain: Small-scale cultivation in Catalonia and Aragon.

America:

·        United States: Widely cultivated in California's Central Coast (Paso Robles, Santa Barbara), Washington State, and Oregon. Wineries like Tablas Creek have championed Roussanne as a standalone varietal in Rhône-style blends.

·        Mexico: Emerging cultivation in Baja California due to its Mediterranean climate.

Latin America:

·        Argentina and Chile: Grown experimentally in wine-producing areas like Mendoza and the Central Valley. Limited but promising potential.

Canada:

·        British Columbia and Ontario: Cultivated in small quantities, benefiting from cool climate conditions that maintain its acidity.

Middle East:

·        Lebanon: Château Musar and other Lebanese wineries use Roussanne in premium blends.

·        Israel: Gaining popularity in regions like the Golan Heights and Galilee.

South Africa:

The Cape Winelands produce Rhône-style blends with Roussanne, which add depth and complexity to white wine blends. Top wineries in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek have produced acclaimed vintages.

Asia:

·        India: Small plantings in Nashik and other emerging wine regions.

·        China: Experimental vineyards have been planted in Hebei and Ningxia.

Australia and New Zealand:

·        Australia: Established in regions like the Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, and Victoria. Pioneering producers create both single-varietal Roussanne and GSM (Grenache-Syrah-Mourvèdre) blends.

·        New Zealand: Minimal planting, but boutique wineries in Hawke's Bay and Marlborough have shown success with Rhône-style whites.

Roussanne's unique combination of elegance, ageing potential, and adaptability ensures its continued rise in global viticulture. Its journey from a nearly forgotten grape to a celebrated varietal showcases its enduring allure for winemakers and wine lovers alike.