The Roussanne grape can be found in the vineyards of Hermitage and other appellations of the northern Rhone area of France. The grape is permitted to be used when making white Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

 It is a difficult grape to grow because it is very susceptible to rot and mildew and ripens late. The grape is found in California, but there are fewer than 300 acres planted in the entire state, and it provides many challenges for the vintner.  

Recently, I decided to make some crab cakes for a special dinner I was planning with friends. Of course, I pulled out my favorite recipe to make my crab cakes and sautéed those gently in extra virgin olive oil until the edges were crispy. Then, I made some Tagliarelle pasta with fresh lemon zest and cream sauce to serve on the side. With a touch of thinly sliced imported prosciutto on top of the pasta it made for a complete dish. Since I was serving such a rich meal I thought an exotic wine would be interesting.

I chose a bottle of Shannon Ridge, Morine Ranch, Lake County, California Roussanne with a blend of a small percentage of Viognier to elevate the tropical aromas. A portion of the wine was barrel fermented in French oak to help add a rich mouth feel, creamy softness and balance. The color of this wine is straw like, and it has aromas of tropical fruit, lychee, cola and carries a soft citrus ending. The flavor is packed with passion fruit, root beer soda, and citrus. This wine has great body, is full with a long finish and carries with it 15% alcohol content.

The dinner was a success!

I took a chance that my guest would like my pairing of this wine with dinner, and as it turned out, I am glad I did.

Cheers!

Glenn Sudnick, Sommelier/Wine Consultant, Jupiter