Marsanne

Marsanne is an ancient white wine grape variety that has been a part of the Rhône Valley’s viticulture for centuries. It is a white grape variety that is used in the production of white blends and is often blended with Roussanne, Viognier and Grenache Blanc.

Marsanne has a yellowish-golden colour and produces wines with aromas of honeysuckle and orange blossom, as well as stone fruits, hazelnuts and white peach. On the palate, Marsanne wines are full-bodied and creamy, with notes of honey, fresh herbs, floral and stone fruits.

Marsanne is mainly grown in France's Rhône Valley, as well as in Australia, California, New Zealand, Virginia and Washington. It is also grown in Italy, Switzerland and Portugal. Marsanne is a vigorous grape variety that is resistant to powdery mildew, but is sensitive to spring frosts. In the vineyard, it requires moderate yields and careful canopy management in order to achieve the best quality grapes. In the winery, Marsanne needs to be handled carefully as it has a tendency to oxidise quickly. Marsanne is used in many styles of wine, but mostly known for its dry wines, which are usually a part of a blend. The Rhône Valley is the most renowned region for Marsanne, with wines that are full-bodied and intensely aromatic and usually blended with other varieties such as Rousanne or Viognier. In the New World, Marsanne is used to produce lighter, crisper wines with aromas of citrus and stone fruits. Marsanne pairs well with all types of seafood, as well as roasted vegetables and creamy sauces. It also pairs well with roasted poultry and pork dishes, as well as creamy cheeses.

Marsanne was most likely named after the commune of Marsanne near Montélimar in the Drôme of which it most likely derives.