Marsanne and Roussanne are two classic grape varieties primarily associated with the Rhône Valley in France, although they are also cultivated in other wine regions around the world. They are often blended together to create complex, full-bodied white wines with distinctive flavor profiles. Here’s a closer look at each variety:
Marsanne
Origin and History:
- Origin: Marsanne is believed to have originated in the northern Rhône Valley of France. It is one of the principal white grape varieties of this region.
- History: The first recorded mention of Marsanne dates back to the 16th century. The grape is named after the village of Marsanne in the Drôme department of France, near the Rhône Valley.
Characteristics:
- Flavor Profile: Marsanne wines tend to be full-bodied with moderate acidity. They often exhibit flavors of pear, quince, melon, and honeysuckle, along with nutty or slightly waxy characteristics as they age. In some cases, they can develop notes of marzipan or almond.
- Aromas: The aromas of Marsanne wines can include notes of peach, apricot, and white flowers. With age, these wines can develop additional complexity, such as aromas of beeswax, hazelnut, and toast.
- Structure: Marsanne has a relatively low acidity compared to other white grape varieties, which gives it a round, rich mouthfeel. Wines made from Marsanne have an oily texture, are full bodied and have medium to high alcohol. They can age well, developing more depth and complexity over time.
Viticulture:
- Climate and Soil: Marsanne thrives in warm, dry climates and is often planted in stony, well-drained soils. The grape is quite hardy and resistant to drought, making it suitable for a variety of terroirs. and therefore does well on the slopes of the northern Rhône Valley.
- Growing Conditions: Marsanne grapes are relatively easy to grow but can be susceptible to botrytis (noble rot) if conditions are too humid. This is a late-budding, pale skinned white variety (helping it to avoid spring frosts) that is vigorous and productive. To produce high-quality wine, yields must be kept low to reduce the amount of fruit being ripened. It performs best on stony and low fertility soils (low fertility keeps the yields low) It is prone to powdery mildew, mites and botrytis bunch rot.
Regions:
- France: In France, Marsanne is primarily grown in the northern Rhône Valley, where it is used to make wines in appellations such as Hermitage, Crozes-Hermitage, Saint-Joseph, and Saint-Péray and it is either made as a varietal wine or blended with Roussanne It is also grown in the southern Rhône where it is usually part of a blend and other regions of France.
- Other Regions: Outside of France, Marsanne is planted in regions like Australia (particularly in Victoria), the United States (especially in California and Washington State), and Switzerland.
Roussanne
Origin and History:
- Origin: Roussanne also hails from the Rhône Valley, France. Like Marsanne, it has a long history in the region and is named after its reddish, russet-colored skin when ripe (“roux” in French means “russet” or “reddish-brown”).
- History: Roussanne has been cultivated in the Rhône Valley for centuries and is often blended with Marsanne to create classic Rhône white wines.
Characteristics:
- Flavor Profile: Roussanne wines are medium lemon in colour, sometimes gold typically aromatic with higher acidity compared to Marsanne. They offer flavors of pear, honey, herbal tea, and floral notes, such as chamomile or acacia. As they age, they can develop complex flavors like roasted nuts, dried fruit, and herbal undertones.
- Aromas: The wines made from Roussanne are known for their intense aromatic qualities, which may include scents of jasmine, rose, and herbs like thyme and rosemary.
- Structure: Roussanne’s natural acidity gives the wine a fresher, more vibrant profile compared to Marsanne. The wines are generally medium to full-bodied, with a rich and rounded texture that allows for good aging potential, but the wines tend to age quicker than Marsanne.
Viticulture:
- Climate and Soil: Roussanne prefers warm, sunny climates and can be challenging to grow due to its susceptibility to powdery mildew, rot, and other vine diseases. It does well in rocky, well-drained soils.
- Growing Conditions: Roussanne is less vigorous than Marsanne and often requires more attention in the vineyard. Its susceptibility to mildew and low yields can make it a less attractive option for growers, but the resulting wines can be highly prized for their aromatic qualities and complexity.
Regions:
- France: Roussanne is widely planted in the northern Rhône Valley and is also found in the southern Rhône, where it is blended into white Châteauneuf-du-Pape and other Rhône blends. It is also grown in Provence, Languedoc-Roussillon, and Savoie.
- In the Rhône Valley, it is normally blended with other varieties, especially Marsanne in the northern Rhône and Clairette and Grenache Blanc in the southern Rhône, although single varietal wines are made in both.
- Other Regions: Roussanne is also grown in Italy, Spain, Australia, and the United States, particularly in California, where it has found success in regions like the Central Coast and Sierra Foothills.
Blending and Use
Marsanne and Roussanne are often blended together because their complementary characteristics can create a well-balanced and complex wine. Marsanne contributes body, richness, and texture, while Roussanne adds aromatic intensity, acidity, and finesse. The blend is common in several Rhône Valley appellations, producing wines that can range from fresh and floral to rich and opulent, depending on the proportions and the winemaking techniques used.
Styles of Wine
- Young Wines: When young, Marsanne-Roussanne blends are typically fresh and vibrant, with pronounced fruit and floral aromas. They can be enjoyed as a crisp aperitif or paired with seafood, poultry, and light pasta dishes.
- Aged Wines: With age, these wines can develop greater complexity, showcasing nutty, honeyed, and toasty flavors. They pair well with richer dishes, including roasted poultry, creamy sauces, and hearty vegetable preparations.
Overall, Marsanne and Roussanne are two distinctive grape varieties that offer a unique combination of flavors and textures, especially when blended together. Their wines can range from fresh and aromatic to rich and complex, making them versatile and appealing to a broad range of wine enthusiasts.