Michael Shaps, Monticello (Virginia) Roussanne 2020

 With this release, Michael Shaps expands upon the Viognier boom in Virginia and makes a really unique and interesting Roussanne.  Blended with 20% Viognier, and enjoying 25% new oak barrels, this Roussanne shares some of the similar qualities to its more well-known sibling.  The vanilla and clove notes are clear flavor highlights, a direct result of the new oak usage, but there is a simplicity of balance and fruit that makes this wine stand out on its own.  South-East facing Honah Lee Vineyard received lots of sunlight, especially helpful in damp mornings.  This extra sunlight enables the grape ripeness and inhibits disease pressure from mold and mildew.  I love what Michael Shaps is doing here and I really hope it continues.