Herbal tea, fine delicate wines, more refined than Marsanne
French_Clones
4
Roussanne is one of the major white grape varieties in the Rhône. It is difficult to grow because it is susceptible to rot, gives low yields, is difficult to ripen, and oxidizes readily. Its name comes from the russet color of the skin. In the Northern Rhône, it is the minor component (typically ~15%) in blends with Marsanne in the white wines of Hermitage, Crozes-Hermitage, St-Joseph, and St-Péray. The Marsanne gives body and weight, and the Roussanne adds finesse. It is one of the white varietals used in Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc. It has also now been planted in Languedoc-Roussillon and recently has been cultivated in California in conjunction with other Rhône varietals.
Sacy
