Variety:Â 35% Roussanne; 30% Viognier; 25% Grenache Blanc; 5% Clairette; 5% Marsanne
Region: Northern Rhone Valley
Cost:Â $14 (SRP)
Winemaker’s Notes:Â This bright, pale-golden wine opens to aromas of white fruits and flowers. On the palate, it is nicely balanced with freshness provided by the Clairette while the Grenache gives it body and a gentle softness.
My Review: I’ll be the first to admit that I don’t drink the most blended whites. There’s no particular reason, and sure, some of the wines that I drink have a touch of this or that, but they are, by and large, single varietals. So I’ll admit that getting to try what was not only a blended white, but a blend featuring some grapes that I’m not terribly familiar with, was great.
So, what did I think of the 2016 Ferraton Pere & Fils Cotes du Rhone Samorens Blanc?
On the nose I picked up aromas of flowers, while in the mouth the fine was bright and fresh, bringing in flavors of white flowers and a bit of citrus that was crisp without being tart. My wife and I paired the wine with some spicy tuna rolls that we made at home and it did a nice job of going with the sushi, showing some versatility.
I don’t think there’s any chance of this wine becoming a regular in our house – it was tasty enough, and I always appreciate versatile wines, but it also didn’t knock my socks off. That being said, at $14 it’s a good value, and certainly something I’d consider if I came across it on the shelves and was looking to mix it up.
Editor’s Note: I received this wine as a free sample for review
