Roussanne, a white grape variety from France’s Rhône Valley, is renowned for its aromatic complexity and rich, full-bodied wines. Its name is derived from the French word "roux," meaning reddish-brown, referring to the distinctive colour of its ripe berries. The variety was first documented in the late 18th century in the northern Rhône, where it became a cornerstone of appellations like Hermitage and Crozes-Hermitage. Its cultivation nearly vanished in the 20th century due to low yields and susceptibility to disease, but a revival was sparked by Rhône enthusiasts and New World winemakers in regions like California, Australia, and Canada.
Roussanne’s versatility shines through in a range of wine styles in Canada, from reductive, single-varietal bottlings to more complex, textured blends that echo its traditional Rhône pairings with Marsanne or Viognier. The Okanagan’s hot, dry summers, often soaring above 30°C, provide ideal conditions for the variety’s long ripening period, coaxing out its signature character. Solo expressions, like this one from Lake Breeze on the Naramata Bench, emphasize Roussanne’s bright acidity and finesse.
Tasting Note
Roussanne can be overpowering, but this is a fresh expression of the variety. It's ripe, with sweet lemon on the palate, yet it remains bright and fleshy, balanced by notes of hay, grapefruit, and gooseberry, leading to a long, ripe finish.
Food Pairing
Enjoy it with your favourite curry dish.