Description
Souillard's Roussanne is drawn from an intriguing, granite-based vineyard at Sanilhac, close to the entrance of the beautiful Ardèche gorge. The east-facing vineyard—planted in the early 1970s and 2000s—sits on a steep hillside at 450 metres where the poor, stony grès (sandstone) soils are laced with granite. Souillard works with just 0.4 hectares (he also sources his Viognier from this “magic” site). The altitude here is key. Souillard’s Roussanne is his last variety to ripen and can be picked as late as October, still with moderate alcohol without loss of acidity (the 2020 was harvested on September 26). Following partial crushing, the grapes were fermented wild and aged for 12 months in older oak barrels. A touch of maceration and a managed press cycle drew out more food-friendly grip than is commonly seen this far south.
"Seductive and open aromas of yellow plum and nectarine. The palate is a golden nectar, lush and exuberant with creamy lemon curd and macadamia nut complexity, but ultimately finishing dry and poised. Highly enjoyable now, but its concentration will see it through another five to seven years. Fermented with indigenous yeasts and minimal sulphur use. Working with small, individual parcels in the northern Rhône, Jean-Baptiste is one to watch." - 94 Points, Natalie Earl, Decanter (2020 vintage)
