Lemon lime, morning dew, ripe nectarine. Fresh papaya, sea salt, sticky passionfruit. Hibiscus and sweet flowers, hints of vanilla and clove. Mineral rich mountain stream trickling down onto honey-covered macerated tropical fruit. Ripe, round, juicy, & forward with a drip of squeaky clean salinity. This 2016 Estate Roussanne by Rideau Vineyard is luscious and loaded interpretation of Santa Barbara taking on Rhone.

The Los Olivos District of Santa Barbara County California is more famous for the red wines it produces than its whites, but these white wines can be just as compelling as their red brethren. This Roussanne, Produced by Rideau Vineyard, is a perfect example of what this zone can create. This stuff oozes dripping fruit and tropical floral tones while not the least bit shy about the punch it packs. 15.1% ABV is carefully disguised behind just the right amount of acidity and youthful unspoiled minerality. It is bushels of fun until the last drop but serious enough to pair splendidly with a gourmet spread. Fans of lush California Chardonnay looking to branch out to something new are sure to be impressed here.