Roussane is a white wine grape variety native to the Rhône wine region in France. The grapes are distinguished by their russet color when ripe – a marked similarity to the reddish-brown stems of the vine, hence its name 'Roussane' or 'little red'.
Roussane is grown in many wine regions around the world, including Italy, Australia, and United States. It’s mainly used in blend wines, alongside other Rhône white grapes like Marsanne and Viognier.
The Roussane varietal is known for its aromatic complexity, offering an array of scents like flowers, fruits, and spices. Its flavor profile boasts elements of herbal tea, honet, apricot and pear, often with a rich, full-bodied texture and a noticeably bright, acidic finish.
However, Roussane is known to be a difficult grape to cultivate. It's susceptible to mildew, the grapes have uneven ripening times, and the vine can produce irregular yields. Yet, these challenges do not deter winemakers due to the unique and complex wines the grape can produce.
