Terre Rouge Roussanne 2004

We began bottling Roussanne on an annual basis in 2001. This bottling originates from a newly established vineyard site between Auburn and Foresthill called the Monarch Mine Vineyard. it is planted with a clone of the Roussanne grape that originates from a Chave family parcel on the hill at Hermitage. This is a difficult variety to grow. It ripens unevenly, so it must be harvested selectively and not all at the same time. It is also susceptible to powdery mildew. The fruit in 2004 was fully ripe at harvest in mid-September. The resulting wine has classic Roussanne characteristics: Straw golden color; with exquisite quince, honeynut, and beeswax aromas. It has a very rich and silky mouth feel. A rare treat. Only 400 cases were produced.