Beverage

Roussanne

Roussanne is the more aromatic and acid-bright partner to Marsanne in Rhône whites, showing pear, herbal tea, apricot, and a distinctive herbal-floral lift. It can be finicky in the vineyard but rewards with structure and ageing potential; pure Roussanne and Marsanne-Roussanne blends define Hermitage blanc and many southern Rhône whites. California and Australian growers also bottle single-varietal Roussanne with ripe stone fruit and spice. Texture sits between oily Marsanne and leaner coastal whites. Pair with herb-roasted chicken, scallops in brown butter, risotto with wild herbs, and soft goat-to-cow cheeses of moderate strength. Deglaze carefully—Roussanne’s perfume is an asset if not boiled hard. Fuller bottles stand up to lightly spiced poultry and roasted root vegetables better than crisp Pinot Grigio.

Also known as: Roussanne