theCompass
 Home   Map   Blog Roll   WineCompass   Wine 101   My Compass 

Marsanne

Marsanne Wine Details
Price: $12.00 per bottle

Description: Marsanne is an increasingly popular white grape variety probably originating in the northern Rhone region of France. It is earning itself a reputation as a full bodied, characterful varietal, or blending partner for more aromatic, acid varieties such as Roussanne & Viognier. The 1998 Horton Marsanne is medium colored, full bodied, aromatic, lush, with a long tropical finish with a hint of almonds throughout.

Varietal Definition
Marsanne:
White grape of the Northern Rhône and primary constituent of white Crozes-Hermitage and St.Joseph it is also a permitted blend for red Hermitage. It produces wines high in extract and alcohol with pronounced floral and almond characteristics. Often blended with the more refined Roussanne for a touch of elegance. Seen as a varietal in the Victoria region of Australia, notably Chateau Tahbilk.
Roussanne:
Also known as Bergeron in the french Savoie region. Semi-classic grape grown in the Hermitage-Rhone and southern Cotes du Rhone region of France. Still occasionally incorporated into white wine blends, (e.g: with the Marsanne grape wine), because of its acidity and aroma but finding less and less favor.
Viognier:
The most acclaimed white wine grape from France's Rhône Valley, Viognier is a highly aromatic varietal, with a flavor profile that could include peach, apricot, nectarine, lichee, musk and flower blossom. The heady perfume of this varietal is one of its trademarks, although its flavors are sometimes problematic in matching with food. However, it does well with lobster, crab and moderately flavored fish. Use it as an apéritif as an alternative to Chardonnay. The "Rhône Rangers" in California have done an excellent job promoting this varietal.


Reviews




Back to Horton Vineyards information