2007 Chambers Rosewood Vineyards Roussanne

Roussanne originates from the Northern Rhone valley in France and with marsanne and viognier makes up the trifecta of major white wines in this region. All three have the potential for age-worthiness.

It is one of the varieties permitted in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Crozes-Hermitage, Hermitage and Saint-Joseph DOCs.

Like a chardonnay, Roussanne is golden in colour. It is interesting to note however that when mature, the grapes acquire a characteristic pinkish-brown colour which is the reason for the name of the strain.

This wine has pear and golden apples on the aromatics with a full bodied, honey and lemon zest component on the palate. An oily texture and smokey notes boost the entire fruit profile.

The non-irrigated Roussanne vines, many of which are over eighty years old at the Rosewood Vineyards in Rutherglen, produce low yields with wonderfully concentrated and unctuous flavours.

Australian winemakers do things their own way and some make Roussanne as a stand alone varietal wine while others blend it with Marsanne and/or Viognier.

Drinking well now and would go well with a variety of seafood or vegetarian dishes. 

Source: Winery Purchase. Rating: 87 Points. Website: www.rutherglenvic.com/wineries/winery