The Foundry Roussanne 2017
By Christian Eedes, 2 April 2019
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Hard to get a handle on.
What to expect from single-variety Roussanne? The 2017 as made by Chris Williams under The Foundry label has a curious neutrality about it in contrast to the compelling 2016 (see here). From Stellenbosch grapes, maturation in older oak barrels lasted 10 months. On the nose, subtle notes of herbs, citrus and white peach while the palate shows some sweetness offset by driving acidity, the finish possessing a saline quality (alcohol: 13.49%). Clean and correct but perhaps this variety is ultimately better used as a blending component. Wine Cellar price: R215 a bottle.
Editor’s rating: 90/100.
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Stewart Prentice | 5 April 2019
Hi Chris
On a search for a local distributor for the Chateau de Beaucastel Chateauneuf-du-Pape Blanc Roussanne Vieilles Vignes, but looks like I’ll have to get some in from the UK. Luckily yours should be easier to track down:)
Cheers
Hennie Taljaard | 3 April 2019
Recently had a brilliant Roussanne from Hermit on the Hill called The Round Table from the 2015 vintage. A Pieter de Waal wine which I hope to get hold of some more.
Chris Williams | 2 April 2019
Hi Christian, I have also found Roussanne to be slightly confounding and intriguing. I have noticed that the wine shuts down after bottling and then begins to emerge in oscillating waves- blossoming and then receding for a year or two, only to emerge gloriously later on as one of the most compelling varieties I have ever worked with or tasted.
I agree that it can play a seminal role in blends, both white and red, but when it is good as a single variety, it is astounding…If you have ever tasted Chateau de Beaucastel Chateauneuf-du-Pape Blanc Roussanne Vieilles Vignes you will know what I mean. Vine age is critical (the Beaucastel Roussanne vineyard was planted in 1909) which is why I am so excited about Roussannes’ future in South Africa. Interestingly, of the white varieties, it has one of the highest dry extracts, similar to Riesling, which can bring an intensity without weight or heavyness.