Marsanne
An emblematic grape variety for white wines from the northern Rhône Valley, where it is often blended with Roussanne, Marsanne produces powerful wines with floral and hazelnut aromas which develop particularly with ageing. It is also present in wine blends from the south of the Rhône Valley. In Saint-Péray, Marsanne is vinified as a still wine as well as a sparkling wine.
Contents
Informations
Origin: Northern Rhône Valley
Location within the Rhône Valley: Northern Crus and southern Rhône Valley
Soils: Rocky
Plantings within the Rhône Valley AOCs: About 850 hectares
In the vineyards
Bunch and berries: Large clusters of small berries, with golden to red-tinged skin
Maturity: Mid-ripening
Characteristics: Vigorous and generous variety, in particular on fertile soils
Terroir: Marsanne thrives on warm rocky soils, especially those of the northern Côtes du Rhône.
In the cellars
Characteristics: Marsanne produces powerful wines with medium to low acidity. Its aromatic potential is expressed through floral notes, evolving towards hazelnut notes with ageing. It may present a slight bitterness in the finish.
Wine styles: Still or sparkling dry white wines; sweet white wines (straw wines)