Altesse

Altesse is a white grape of the French Alpine wine tradition, especially familiar through the name Roussette de Savoie. It is a different grape from Roussanne, despite the resemblance between some wine names. Its wines can provide more breadth and capacity for development than the lightest Jacquère whites, offering another useful route into Savoie.

The word Roussette on the relevant regional label points towards Altesse, while individual place names and producer choices refine the picture. Some bottles are made for fresh drinking, others for a more developed texture. Do not turn a general reputation for ageing into a requirement to keep every bottle, particularly when the producer intends an immediate, fruit-led expression.

Use a dry Altesse with fish in a sauce, roast poultry, vegetables or a cheese dish where both freshness and some body are welcome. Let it warm slightly after pouring if it seems quiet from the fridge. For a first comparison with Jacquère, choose similar levels of producer and notice the difference in texture as well as aroma.