2024 Roussanne
91 points - Northwest Wine Report - Critic's Choice
Tasting Notes
This 100% Roussanne from Sugarloaf Vineyard in the Rattlesnake Hills AVA opens with
inviting aromas of honeysuckle and apricot. On the palate, it is rich and textured,
featuring flavors of ripe pear and Meyer lemon. Eight months of fermentation and
aging in a concrete egg enhance its freshness and minerality, resulting in a balanced
wine with a long, elegant finish.
Winemaking
The winemaking for this Roussanne focuses on purity and texture, with fermentation
and aging taking place entirely in a concrete egg for eight months. This vessel allows
for gentle lees contact and natural micro-oxygenation, enhancing the wine’s mouthfeel
while preserving its vibrant aromatics and minerality. The result is a wine that expresses
both the varietal character of Roussanne and the unique terroir of Sugarloaf Vineyard in
the Rattlesnake Hills AVA.
Food Pairing
This Roussanne pairs beautifully with rich seafood dishes like seared scallops or grilled
halibut, as well as creamy poultry dishes such as chicken in a lemon-herb sauce. Its
texture and acidity also make it a great match for dishes with nuts and spices, such as
Moroccan tagine or Thai-inspired cuisine.
Technical Data
Alcohol: 13.8% ABV
Production: 116 cases