Roussanne

The Roussanne grape is a distinguished white wine grape variety whose origin traces back to France's renowned Rhône wine region. Much like its name which is derived from 'roux', the French word for 'russet', characteristic of its russet-hued berries, Roussanne is celebrated for its deeply aromatic, rich, and complex features.

The grape is rare and not extensively cultivated due to its vulnerability to powdery mildew, wind damage, and irregular yields. However, it's cherished by wine connoisseurs for the exquisite profile it imparts to wine, making it worth the labour-intensive cultivation efforts. The grape has a rightful place in prestigious blends, including Hermitage, Crozes-Hermitage, and Saint-Joseph where it's blended with Marsanne.

Roussanne-aged wines are intriguing, bearing a rich, full-bodied structure and character. The fruity notes of ripe pear, honey, and apricot waft gently from a glass of Roussanne wine. As the wine matures, these flavours blend with undertones of honey, lemon, and herbal tea characteristics, with nuts and spices dancing on the palate, making it an incredible sensory experience. The wine has an underlying acidity balance that gives it longevity.

Externally, the grape variety has small, round berries that ripen late and have a knack for obtaining high sugar levels. Surprisingly, in contrast, the juice they produce has high acidity, which contributes significantly to the balance in Roussanne wines' expressive individuality.

Over the last few years, this grape has begun to stake its claim outside the Rhône areas. Due to the expansive interest in Rhône varieties from winemakers worldwide, Roussanne is now grown in regions like California, Australia, and South Africa. However, remaining true to its French roots, the best Roussanne grapes are still thought to be grown in the Rhône region.

In conclusion, Roussanne grape is quite reflective of nature's paradoxical beauty: challenging to grow yet yielding an outcome that is a wonder in a glass: a symphony of complexity and satisfaction. It offers a unique, delightful journey for any wine lover.

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