Beverage

Marsanne

Marsanne is a Rhône white of medium to full body, with pear, honeysuckle, almond, and a slightly oily texture that ages toward marzipan and beeswax. Hermitage and Crozes-Hermitage whites often blend Marsanne with Roussanne; pure Marsanne appears in the Rhône, Languedoc, Australia’s Victorian plantings, and California. Acid is moderate, so cool sites and careful picking keep the wine from feeling heavy; oak is optional and usually restrained. Culinary partners include roast poultry, creamy mushroom dishes, lobster, and mild hard cheese. In the pan Marsanne adds weight to white sauces and poultry jus without the butter-bomb of heavily oaked Chardonnay. Young bottles drink with grilled fish; aged Hermitage-style whites need richer food to match their honeyed depth.

Also known as: Marsanne