Roussanne, The unsung hero of the wine world!

3 Horse Ranch Vineyards is nestled deep in the foothills outside of Eagle. On the way to the vineyard, you will lose cell service, the pavement will turn into a dirt road and just when you are convinced the GPS has gone completely haywire, you will crest one of the rolling hills and there we will be, 3 Horse Ranch Vineyards! The south facing slope is covered in beautiful green vines with the foothills surrounding our lovely little valley. The south facing slope is home to 12 different varietals: Syrah, Grenache, Pinot Gris, Roussanne, Mourvèdre, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay. Growing just beside the tasting room is our Sauvignon Blanc. The mineral rich/loamy soil, climate, and easy access to the Snake River Aquifer create the perfect growing conditions for grapes.

One of the lesser-known varietals we grow here on property is Roussanne. This grape is traditionally grown in southern French regions such as the Rhone Valley, Languedoc-Roussillon, and Savoie. This varietal can be difficult to grow as the vines are susceptible to mildew and rot, making the yields unpredictable. Despite this hurdle Roussanne is still considered one of the top white varietals in the world and is most commonly used in blends. We produce a blend of Viognier and Roussanne called Vivacious.  This blend consists of Viognier which provides classic stone fruit flavors of apricot and peach, while Roussanne adds notes of honey, melon, and mountain herbs. Roussanne on its own is known for being a floral wine with notes of apricot and ginger with a minerally finish. This wine pairs well with rich seafood and poultry dishes as well as bloomy and washed rind cheeses. Here are a few recommended recipes to try!

http://Classic French Bouillabaisse - https://wanderspice.com/bouillabaisse/

http://Asparagus Gratin - https://themodernproper.com/asparagus-gratin-with-gruyere-panko