Altesse
Also known as: Roussette, Roussette de Savoie, Fusette
Altesse
Quick Facts
- Berry Color: Green-yellow with russet tinge
- Skin Thickness: Medium
- Ripening: Late
- Vigor: Low
- Yield: Low
- Character: Aromatic, complex, age-worthy
- Alternative Name: Roussette (from berry color)
Overview
Altesse (also known as Roussette) is Savoie’s finest indigenous white grape variety, producing aromatic, complex wines with remarkable aging potential from the alpine foothills of eastern France. The variety’s name “Roussette” derives from the russet color of its ripe berries, while “Altesse” suggests nobility (though etymology is debated). Best known through the Roussette de Savoie appellation, Altesse produces wines with distinctive honeyed, herbal character that can develop for decades. For enologists, Altesse represents important study in age-worthy white wine production and the preservation of alpine grape heritage.
Etymology and History
Name Origin
Altesse: Possibly from “altesse” (highness); debated
Roussette: From russet berry color
Connection: Both names used interchangeably
Historical Development
- Ancient Savoie cultivation
- Traditional alpine variety
- Legend: Brought from Cyprus
- Modern: Growing recognition
The Cyprus Legend
Story: Brought by Anne de Chypre (15th century)
Evidence: No DNA support
Status: Romantic legend
Viticulture
Vine Characteristics
Growth Habit: Weak; compact
Leaf Shape: Small
Cluster: Small; compact
Berry: Small; russet when ripe
Growing Requirements
Climate: Cool; alpine influence
Soil Preference: Limestone; marl
Altitude: Hillsides preferred
Challenge: Low yields; demanding
Phenological Stages
| Stage | Timing |
|---|---|
| Bud break | Mid-April |
| Flowering | Early June |
| Véraison | Mid-August |
| Harvest | October (late) |
Cultivation Demands
Yield: Naturally low
Sites: Best hillside exposures
Care: Careful attention required
Wine Profile
Appearance
- Color: Golden yellow
- Intensity: Medium to deep
- Evolution: Deepens with age
Aromatic Profile
Primary Aromas:
- Honey (signature)
- Stone fruit (apricot, peach)
- Citrus (lemon, bergamot)
- White flowers
- Almond
Secondary/Tertiary:
- Dried fruit
- Spice
- Herbal (dried herbs)
- Mineral
Palate Characteristics
Structure:
- Medium to full body
- Good acidity
- Rich texture
- Complex layers
Texture: Rich; honeyed; elegant
Finish: Long; persistent; evolving
Regional Expressions
Roussette de Savoie AOC
Status: Quality designation
Requirements: 100% Altesse (Roussette)
Crus: Frangy, Marestel, Monterminod, Monthoux
Vin de Savoie
Usage: Blending permitted
Quality: Variable
Bugey
Region: Adjacent to Savoie
Style: Similar; distinctive terroir
Crus of Roussette de Savoie
Marestel
Character: Finest cru; age-worthy
Terroir: Excellent limestone slopes
Frangy
Character: Aromatic; elegant
Monthoux
Character: Rich; full
Monterminod
Character: Fresh; mineral
Winemaking Considerations
Fermentation
Temperature: Cool to moderate
Duration: Standard
Vessel: Steel, oak, or concrete
Goal: Preserve aromatics; build complexity
Oxidative Potential
Character: Handles oxygen well
Style Options: Fresh or oxidative
Aging: Develops beautifully
Oak Treatment
Traditional: Some oak (large format)
Modern: Stainless for freshness
Premium: Barrel fermentation
Aging Potential
Young (1-5 years): Fresh; aromatic
Developing (5-15 years): Complexity; honey
Mature (15-30+ years): Profound; evolved
Food Pairing
Traditional Matches
Savoyard Cuisine:
- Fondue
- Raclette
- Grilled fish
- Cream-based dishes
Alpine Character: Rich; suitable for hearty food
Temperature
Serving: 10-12°C
Key Producers
Quality Leaders
Domaine Dupasquier: Benchmark quality
Domaine Lupin: Traditional excellence
Various Savoie estates: Quality producers
Market Position
Production Statistics
Savoie Plantings: ~350 hectares
Trend: Stable; quality focus
Limitation: Small production
Pricing
| Level | Price (€) |
|---|---|
| Standard | €12-18 |
| Cru | €18-30 |
| Premium | €28-50 |
Market Position
Recognition: Limited outside region
Strength: Genuine quality; uniqueness
Challenge: Unfamiliarity
Comparison with Alpine Whites
| Variety | Character | Aging | Region |
|---|---|---|---|
| Altesse | Honeyed, complex | Long | Savoie |
| Jacquère | Fresh, light | Short | Savoie |
| Chasselas | Neutral, light | Short | Switzerland |
| Petite Arvine | Aromatic, saline | Medium | Valais |
Age-Worthy White
Development
Unique Position: Age-worthy alpine white
Comparison: Similar to aged Chenin Blanc
Patience: Rewards cellaring
Conclusion
Altesse (Roussette) represents one of France’s hidden treasures—an age-worthy white grape producing complex, honeyed wines from the alpine foothills of Savoie. For enologists, Altesse demonstrates that exceptional white wine can emerge from unexpected regions when variety and terroir align. The grape’s capacity for extended aging challenges assumptions about alpine whites, while its distinctive honey-herb character offers a unique alternative to more common varieties. As interest in indigenous varieties grows, Altesse deserves wider recognition as one of France’s finest white grapes.
References
- Robinson, J., Harding, J., & Vouillamoz, J. (2012). “Wine Grapes.” Ecco/HarperCollins. Publisher Link
- VIVC Database. Variety Information.
Last updated: January 13, 2026