Maison Bleue Petite Joie Marsanne 2010

Aromas of melon, quince, almond paste, jasmine flowers and a touch of Grand Marnier. The flavors are lush and include peach, apricot, marzipan and toasted hazelnuts. This wine pairs well with a variety of foods including lobster and smoked trout.

2009 Vintage Tasting Notes

2009 Wine Advocate - 94 points - The 2009 Petite Joie Marsanne is a revelation. Sourced from the superb Boushey Vineyard in Yakima Valley, it surrenders a captivating bouquet of marzipan, honeydew, almonds, and creme fraiche. Round and viscous on the palate, mineral notes and balancing acidity emerge, leading to an exceptionally lengthy finish. It is certainly the finest white Rhone-styled wine I have ever tasted from Washington. I have no idea whether it might evolve, but I can think of no compelling reason to defer your gratification."

"Maison Bleue Family Winery may be the most compelling new producer uncovered in my 2010 trip to Washington. Former dentist Jon Martinez has become a full-time vigneron; he is the owner and grower of French Creek Vineyard near Prosser and two years ago he purchased 21 acres in Yakima Valley. All of the wines (with one exception) are produced from individual vineyards and the reds are bottled without fining or filtration."

From the winery -

This 100% Marsanne displays distinctive aromatics of crushed fresh almonds, honeydew melon, quince and crème fraiche. The wine is viscous without being too oily, exhibiting lush flavors of apricot and peach, marzipan, toasted hazelnuts, good underlying minerality and balanced acidity. Pair this wine with lobster, pork, chicken, mildly spicy foods, smoked trout, and hard, aged cheeses.