Marsanne is a French grape variety uncommon outside the Northern Rhone region. But it is seriously underrated and produces white wine full of character and complexity! In fact, in Australia, we have the largest and oldest single planting of Marsanne in the world! In this Marsanne wine guide, we dive into the main things you need to know from flavour profile to food pairings.
Marsanne wine guide
Marsanne typically produces white wines that are single variety and blended. The most well-known expressions come from the Rhône Valley and in particular Hermitage. In France, it is typically blended with Roussanne. But it is not limited to France alone, as this grape variety has made a home in both Australia and California too! The great thing about this grape variety is that it can produce wines you can enjoy young and fresh, and wines that are age-worthy and fuller-bodied. There’s something for everyone!
Origin of Marsanne
Marsanne is indigenous to the Northern Rhône Valley of France, where it is blended with Roussanne for Hermitage and also blended with Viognier and Grenache Blanc for the white Côtes du Rhône. Famous white wines of this region include Saint Joseph, Crozes-Hermitage, and other Rhône appellations.
But Marsanne also does well in the new world. It’s popular in California, particularly around the Central Coast. But in Australia, McLaren Vale and the Yarra Valley in particular are paving the way for an incredible new world Marsanne.
The flavour profile of Marsanne
Marsanne is relatively low in acidity but manages to age well despite this. The great thing about this is that you can enjoy Marsanne both young and older and get completely different wines.
Young Marsanne tends to have notes of lemon and pear with stone fruit and honey. It also has a distinct texture and weight in the mouth.
As Marsanne ages, you get lovely maturity and a richer, creamier wine with notes of nuts and honey. Whether they are oaked or not, these wines will develop these aged flavours much like Semillon.
Where you’ll find Marsanne
As mentioned above, Marsanne is popular in Rhône Valley blends (but you won’t find it on the label). However, in California and Australia, you will find single variety Marsanne, particularly in the Yarra Valley and McLaren Vale.
Marsanne is well known in its adopted home of Australia where, in Australia, there is the largest and oldest planting of Marsanne vines in the world.
What to pair with Marsanne
Marsanne goes nicely with a range of foods. It pairs nicely with roast pork or roast chicken, especially when it’s a heavier style. It also pairs nicely with creamy pasta or fish.
Summary: Marsanne wine guide
Marsanne may not be as well known as some other varieties, but it’s certainly making a name for itself both in blends and single varieties. Whether you want to enjoy it young or old, there’s something for everyone! I hope this Marsanne Wine Guide has inspired you to give this variety a go next time you’re looking for a white wine.
Want to learn more about other wine varieties? Check out the Cheeky Vino wine guides now.