Vintage: 2022
Appellation: Walla Walla Valley AVA, Washington State
Vineyard: Valdemar Estates Vineyard
Varietal: 100% Roussanne
Alcohol: 13.8% ABV
Residual Sugar: 0.2 g/L (Dry)
Total Acidity: 5.7 g/L
pH: 3.45
Closure: Cork
Production: Limited - 175 cases
Aging Potential: 3-5 years
Sourced from Valdemar Estates' sustainably farmed vineyards in the Walla Walla Valley. The Roussanne vines benefit from the region's unique combination of warm days and cool nights, with well-draining sandy loam soils that stress the vines appropriately. The 2022 growing season featured a warm summer followed by ideal ripening conditions in early fall, allowing for optimal flavor development while maintaining fresh acidity.
Hand-harvested in the cool morning hours and whole-cluster pressed to preserve delicate aromatics. Fermentation occurred in a combination of neutral French oak barrels (70%) and stainless steel tanks (30%) using indigenous yeasts. The wine underwent partial malolactic fermentation and was aged sur lie for 7 months with regular bâtonnage (lees stirring) to enhance texture and complexity. Minimal intervention techniques were employed throughout the winemaking process.
Appearance: Brilliant pale gold with green highlights and excellent clarity.
Nose: Aromatic and expressive with white peach, honeysuckle, and ripe pear predominating. Secondary notes of chamomile, almond blossom, and subtle spice emerge with aeration. A distinctive mineral character adds complexity and reflects the Walla Walla terroir.
Palate: Medium to full-bodied with a rich, viscous texture balanced by vibrant acidity. The palate reveals layers of yellow apple, white nectarine, and Meyer lemon, complemented by hints of honey, toasted hazelnut, and wet stone. The finish is long and elegant with lingering notes of brioche and subtle baking spices.
This versatile Roussanne pairs beautifully with seafood dishes such as seared scallops, lobster with drawn butter, or halibut in lemon-herb sauce. Also excellent with poultry, especially herb-roasted chicken or turkey with creamy sauces. For vegetarian options, try with butternut squash risotto, creamy mushroom dishes, or aged gouda and alpine-style cheeses.
Valdemar Estates represents a historic collaboration between Spain's renowned Bodegas Valdemar and Washington State. Founded in 2018, it became the first internationally owned winery in Washington, bringing five generations of Spanish winemaking expertise to the distinctive terroir of Walla Walla Valley. The winery focuses on small-production, terroir-driven wines that showcase both their Spanish heritage and the unique character of Washington's growing regions.
Serve chilled at 50-54°F (10-12°C). We recommend opening 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the aromatics to fully develop. The wine will continue to evolve in the glass, revealing additional complexity as it warms slightly.
