Doyenne’s 2006 Roussanne was raised in stainless steel. Medium straw-colored, it offers aromas of candle wax, honeysuckle, passion fruit, and peach. Supple-textured, ripe, and tasty, it has a long, suave finish, just the match for Pacific Northwest salmon. Doyenne is the sister label of DeLille Cellars, with the Rhone varieties all bottled under the Doyenne name. They are reviewed separately www.delillecellars.com

Slightly heavier in style, the medium-bodied, honeyed 2006 Roussanne Red Mountain Vineyard displays a classic rose petal/oily style. It is ideal for drinking over the next several years. This is the Rhone portfolio of the well-known and highly respected Washington state producer, DeLille Cellars. Dr. Jay Miller has comments on the De Lille wines in his review of Washington state wines, but since they were included in my intensive study of Rhone Ranger offerings, I wanted to share my thoughts with readers, although it is interesting to see his comments on the wines, tasted one month later than mine, and in Washington.www.delillecellars.com

This 100% Roussanne cleans the palate with a wash of acid, rock and tart fruit. A mix of white peach, stone fruits, citrus rind and a hint of unripe pineapple, it all adds up to a wine of elegance and complexity. The finish is firm, detailed and seamless, a delight all the way through.——P.G.(5/1/2008)—— 91