Rolle wine, also known as Vermentino, is a white wine grape variety that originates from Italy. It has been gaining popularity in recent years due to its unique flavor profile and versatility. Although it originated in Italy, Rolle is now grown all over the world, with particularly notable examples coming from France’s Provence region.
Why are Rolle Grapes Special ?
What sets Rolle apart from other white wines is its complexity and nuance. It boasts a refreshing acidity that makes it perfect for pairing with seafood dishes or light salads. However, it also has a distinct nutty undertone that hints at notes of almond and hazelnut. These flavors make it stand out among other white wines and provide an added layer of sophistication to any meal.
Where do Rolle grapes grow?
Wines blended from Rolle or Clairette can be found all over the southern region of Provence in France. These two types of wine are commonly consumed along the Mediterranean coast, with Rolle extending into Italy under the name Vermentino, while Clairette covers vineyards in the southern Rhone Valley and Languedoc.
Rolle Wines in Provence
The hills of Provence, where rosé is the preferred wine, are the obvious shared growing areas of Clairette and Rolle. While Provencal white wines are not frequently found on international wine shelves, they are similar gastronomically to rosé as they are light, fresh, and typically consumed during summer months.
Ugni Blanc often accompanies Clairette and Rolle in these white wines, which are usually meant for early consumption within one or two years of harvest, although Rolle can be aged on its own.
Taste Profile of Rolle Wine
Rolle wine is a popular type of white wine that has been enjoyed by many for centuries. This delicious and refreshing wine is made from the Rolle grape, which is grown in various regions across the world. The taste profile of Rolle wine is unique and complex, with a delicate balance of acidity and sweetness.
One of the most prominent flavors in Rolle wine is citrus. The grape itself has a natural citrusy aroma, which carries over into the finished product. When you take a sip of this delightful white wine, you can expect to taste flavors like lemon, lime, and grapefruit. These bright citrus notes are balanced out by a subtle sweetness that comes from the fruit’s natural sugar content.
Another important aspect of the taste profile of Rolle wine is its minerality. This term refers to the unique flavor profile that comes from minerals found in the soil where grapes are grown.
Blending of Rolle Wines
When combined, they create a light and refreshing white wine with floral scents and hints of lemon and stonefruit on the palate. The blend is unique because each variety contributes different qualities to it. Rolle is considered more distinct and is often the primary ingredient, imparting structure, weight, as well as herbaceous and mineral notes. Clairette acts as a supporting player for winemakers by adding aromatic complexity and alcohol content to the blend.
Rolle Wine in Rosé blends
Rolle wine is a key ingredient in Provence rosé wines. It adds a unique flavor profile and aroma that sets these wines apart from other roses. Rolle, also known as Vermentino, is a white grape variety that grows extensively in the Mediterranean region of France.
The addition of Rolle wine to Provence rosé blends gives them their signature freshness and acidity. The grape imparts green apple, citrus, and herbaceous notes to the wine, making it crisp and refreshing on the palate. This makes them perfect for sipping on hot summer days or pairing with light seafood dishes.
Rolle has become an essential component of many well-known Provencal rosé blends such as La Vie en Rose from Miraval Estate and Whispering Angel from Chateau d’Esclans.
How to drink Rolle Wine
Rolle wines from Provence are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. As an aperitif, the Provencal white wines made from Rolle are appreciated for their aromatic character. They also pair well with seafood, except for oysters which require wines with higher acidity. Additionally, they complement Mediterranean ingredients and dishes such as pasta with pistou.
When properly vinified, Rolle can compete with the most elegant white wines, offering a lengthy and unparalleled aftertaste.
Food Pairing of Rolle Wine
Rolle, also known as Vermentino, is a white grape variety that is commonly grown in regions such as Provence and Sardinia. It produces light-bodied wines with bright acidity and flavors of citrus fruits, grassy herbs, and minerality. These characteristics make it an excellent match for seafood dishes such as grilled shrimp or scallops.
In addition to seafood, Rolle wine also pairs well with salads and vegetable-based dishes. Its crisp acidity helps cut through the richness of creamy dressings or sauces while complementing the fresh flavors of raw vegetables.
Top Rolle Wines
France is renowned for its exquisite wines and the Rolle grape variety has captured the hearts of many wine enthusiasts. This white grape is mostly grown in the Provence region of France where it thrives in the Mediterranean climate. The Rolle grapes produce crisp and refreshing wines that are perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. Here are some of the best Rolle wines to try when visiting France.
Chateau De Pibarnon
The first on our list is Chateau de Pibarnon Bandol Blanc 2018. This wine has a beautiful golden hue with aromas of citrus, melon, and white flowers. On the palate, it offers flavors of lemon zest, peach, and apricot with a hint of saline minerality. This wine pairs well with seafood dishes such as grilled shrimp or oysters. It’s definitely worth trying if you’re looking for a fresh and fruity wine.
Chateau Puech-Haut
The Chateau Puech-Haut Rolle Wine is a luxurious wine that has been meticulously crafted to perfection. This wine is known for its delicate and refreshing taste, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. The grapes used in the production of this wine are handpicked and carefully selected to ensure only the best quality is attained.
The Chateau Puech-Haut vineyard, located in the South of France, boasts some of the most fertile soils which produce exceptional grapes. The winemakers at Chateau Puech-Haut have mastered the art of creating a perfect balance between acidity and sweetness in their wines. Their Rolle wine has a bright yellow color with floral aromas that are enthralling to smell.
Chateau De Sarrins – Blanc de Rolle
Chateau de Sarrins Blanc de Rolle is a white wine that hails from Côtes de Provence, France. It is known for its light and refreshing taste, which is perfect for drinking during the hot summer months. The grapes used to make this wine are exclusively grown on the estate of Chateau de Sarrins, and are hand-harvested to ensure the highest quality.
The winemakers at Chateau de Sarrins take great care in producing their Blanc de Rolle. The grapes are gently pressed and fermented at cool temperatures, which helps preserve the delicate flavors of the fruit. They also use a combination of modern and traditional winemaking techniques to create a wine that is well-balanced and easy to drink.
