Estate
Pfeiffer Wines, a specialist in fortified wine in Rutherglen. James Halliday Five Red Star (top 2%).
Region
Rutherglen, in north-east Victoria, is hot and dry. Its Muscat is the one wine style Australia produces that has no equivalent anywhere else in the world.
Variety & Style
Made from Muscat à Petits Grains Rouge, the grapes are left to raisin on the vine, fortified, then aged for extended periods in old wood and blended across a solera. Expect raisin, toffee, caramel and dried fruit — extremely sweet, but balanced by acidity and the nutty character that long ageing brings.
What to Expect
This is the "Classic" tier — second of Rutherglen's four levels (Rutherglen / Classic / Grand / Rare). It will not have the concentration of Grand or Rare, but it is the most sensible price at which to meet the style.
Serving
12–14°C, small glass. Blue cheese, chocolate, dried fruit, ice cream. Keeps for months once opened — one of the few wines you can take your time with.