Grape · White
Marsanne
Also known as Ermitage in Valais or Hermitage Blanc in Valais
Warm climate
About
White Rhone grape often blended with Roussanne. Full-bodied and rich with low acidity; can feel heavy without careful winemaking. Also grown in Australia (particularly Victoria).
Typical profile
Body
Full
Acidity
Mellow
Sweetness
Dry
Aromas
What the grape gives up young, and what it grows into with time in bottle.
Young · fresh from the glass
Oak influence
Possible
Growing regions
How the grape expresses across places, grouped by country. Chips call out how a region's style deviates from the grape's default.
Food pairings
Roasted lobster with herbed butter and tarragonCoq au vin blanc with pearl onions and mushroomsGrilled halibut with lemon risotto and capersRoasted pork tenderloin with white bean cassouletCreamy wild mushroom and truffle pastaPan-seared scallops with cauliflower purée and pancetta
Similar grapes
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Marsanne taste like?▼
Marsanne is a full-bodied white wine with rich flavors of peach, apricot, and almond when young, along with delicate white flower notes. As it ages, it develops complex honey, marzipan, waxy, and nutty characteristics.
Where does Marsanne grow best?▼
Marsanne thrives in warm climates and is most famously grown in France's Northern Rhône Valley. It's also successfully cultivated in Australia, particularly in Victoria, where it produces excellent examples.
What food pairs with Marsanne?▼
Marsanne's full body and rich texture pair beautifully with roasted poultry, creamy pasta dishes, and rich seafood preparations. The wine's weight and complexity also complement aged cheeses and dishes with nutty or buttery sauces.
How does Marsanne age?▼
Marsanne ages exceptionally well, transforming from fresh fruit flavors to more complex notes of honey, marzipan, and nuts over time. The wine develops a waxy texture and deeper golden color as it matures, often improving for 10-15 years or more.
Is Marsanne similar to other similar grapes?▼
Marsanne is most commonly compared to Roussanne, its traditional Rhône blending partner, though Marsanne is fuller-bodied and has lower acidity. It shares some characteristics with other rich white varieties like aged Chardonnay, particularly in terms of body and texture.