Penelope Roussanne – Uniquely Spirited & Lively
EFESTĒ’s Penelope Roussanne is one of the newest editions to our wine line-up and is aptly named for the youngest of the Ferrelli granddaughters, Penelope. Penelope is the youngest daughter of Tony Ferrelli, brother of owner Angela Taylor, and the youngest child of owners Daniel and Helen Ferrelli. With her outgoing, lively, and social personality, Penelope embodies the very essence of youth. Much like its namesake, our Penelope Roussanne is energetic, expressive, and full of life—offering a refreshingly unique and approachable character that still holds depth and complexity.
Penelope’s vivacious character also mirrors the way we approach life here at EFESTĒ: with an open heart, a welcoming spirit, and a commitment to making every occasion a little more special. Just as Penelope brings joy and lightheartedness to every room she enters, our Penelope Roussanne invites you to savor life’s simple pleasures—good wine, great company, and shared moments of celebration.
Winemaking Notes
Our 100% Roussanne is inspired by the Roussanne wines of the Rhône Valley, and is crafted to highlight the varietal’s inherent elegance and fruit-forward character. After a gentle pressing, the wine undergoes fermentation in a mixture of stainless steel, which preserves the bright, fresh fruit flavors, and concrete egg. The use of concrete eggs is a unique element in the winemaking process, providing a slow, even fermentation that helps enhance the wine’s complexity and adds a subtle mineral edge to the wine.
This method allows for a greater expression of the fruit and preserves the natural freshness of the grapes. The result is a wine with a long, rich mouthfeel, showcasing ripe stone fruits like peaches and apricots, complemented by subtle baking spices that add complexity. The finish is smooth and velvety, with a finish that lingers on the palate.
The Vineyard
The grapes for Penelope Roussanne come from the Gamache Vineyards in the heart of the White Bluffs AVA, where the conditions are perfect for growing Roussanne. The vineyard’s gentle slopes, wind-swept soils, and warm climate impart an unmistakable quality to the fruit, resulting in a wine with great depth and complexity. As the grower, Kent Waliser, once said to our winemaker, “Ahh, that tastes and smells like my vineyard”—a simple but powerful statement on how the wine truly reflects the land it comes from.
Tasting Notes
On the nose, the 2021 Penelope Roussanne opens with vibrant aromas of ripe peaches, apricots, and a hint of baking spices. These flavors follow through on the palate, where the wine’s rich texture unfolds with bright, juicy fruit notes. The wine has a zesty citrus character that lifts the stone fruit profile, while a delicate spice adds warmth and depth to the finish. The result is a beautifully balanced wine that is both refreshing and complex, with a finish that invites you to take another sip.
Pairing Suggestions
Penelope Roussanne’s bright acidity and smooth texture make it an incredibly versatile wine to pair with a wide variety of dishes. Here are a few pairing ideas:
- Seafood: Grilled shrimp, scallops, or seared halibut will complement the wine’s citrusy freshness.
- Cheese: Soft cheeses such as Brie, Camembert, or goat cheese work wonderfully with the wine’s fruit-forward character.
- Vegetarian Dishes: Fresh salads with citrus vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or dishes featuring grilled asparagus will pair beautifully with the wine’s vibrant profile.
Reviews and Accolades
Some highlights from our previous 2020 vintage of Penelope Roussanne:
- Vinous: “The 2020 Penelope is a 100% Roussanne wine that delivers plenty of marzipan and brioche tones alongside macadamia nuts and a silky texture in the mouth. A light dusting of salinity and beautiful verve add to the enjoyment here. Wait for the very long finish!”—92 Points
- Owen Bargreen: “The 2020 EFESTE ‘Penelope’ Roussanne is entirely sourced from the Gamache Vineyard. The texture and rich sense of mid-plate weight. This has a very Chateauneuf Blanc feel once on the mouth, unveiling kiwi, ripe honeydew melon and starfruit with cannoli undertones. Nutty and beeswax accents fill in with more air as the 2020 ‘Penelope’ has at least another seven years left. Drink 2021-2028.”—92 Points
- International Wine Report —91 Points
A Toast to Togetherness
EFESTĒ’s Penelope Roussanne is more than just a wine; it’s a celebration of family, joy, and the moments that bring us together. With its lively personality and beautifully balanced flavors, it captures the spirit of Penelope herself—vibrant and full of heart. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening with loved ones or raising a glass at a special gathering, this wine invites you to savor the connections that make life truly memorable. From our family to yours, we hope the Penelope Roussanne adds a little extra brightness and warmth to your next celebration.
Visit our tasting rooms in Woodinville or Seattle, or buy online to enjoy Penelope Roussanne today!
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