Qupe Bien Nacido Hillside Estate Roussanne Santa Maria Valley 2017 750ml
DescriptionQupé Bien Nacido Hillside Estate Roussanne represents a masterful exploration of one of the Rhône Valley's most noble white varietals, now finding extraordinary expression in the unique terroir of Santa Maria Valley. This wine showcases the exceptional character that emerges when this distinguished grape meets California's cool coastal climate, creating an expression of remarkable complexity and aging potential.
The wine opens with an immediately compelling bouquet that reveals the variety's sophisticated character enhanced by bottle age. Complex aromas of white flowers and stone fruits are complemented by notes of honey, toasted nuts, and a distinctive waxy quality that speaks to Roussanne's unique personality. The additional time in bottle has allowed the wine to develop beautiful tertiary aromatics while maintaining its essential freshness and vitality.
On the palate, this Roussanne demonstrates exceptional depth and evolution. The wine presents layers of golden apple and pear flavors enhanced by notes of lanolin and mineral complexity that speak to both the variety's character and the vineyard's distinctive terroir. What distinguishes this expression is its remarkable balance between richness and freshness – the wine possesses both weight and elegance, with a texture that's both substantial and refined.
The Bien Nacido Hillside Estate provides ideal conditions for Roussanne, with its limestone-rich soils and cool climate allowing the variety to develop complexity while retaining natural acidity. The Santa Maria Valley's unique east-west orientation creates perfect conditions for this temperamental variety, resulting in wine that captures both Roussanne's potential for greatness and the region's distinctive character.
This wine pairs exceptionally well with rich seafood preparations, particularly those featuring cream or butter sauces, as well as roasted poultry and aged cheeses. Its complexity and structure also make it perfect for special occasions where sophistication and uniqueness are desired. For collectors seeking exceptional examples of alternative varietals that showcase both quality and aging potential, this Qupé Roussanne offers a rare opportunity to experience one of the Rhône's greatest white grapes in its California expression.
