All Saints Estate Grand Rutherglen Muscadelle (Tokay) (NV)

375mL / Rutherglen, VIC / Australia

Category: Wine
Sub-Category: Fortified

Originally thought to come from the Hungarian Tokai variety (hence the name), it is now accepted that Tokay is made from the Muscadelle grape, a white variety. The long, warm Autumn days at Wahgunyah are virtually perfect for allowing the fruit to ripen to the high Baume levels and raisining so essential for the style.

Rutherglen Tokays are classified into four tiers that mark a progression in richness, complexity and intensity of flavour, due to the age of wines used.

On average they are:
Rutherglen Tokay 2-5 yrs
Classic Rutherglen Tokay 6-10 yrs
Grand Rutherglen Tokay 11-19 yrs
Rare Rutherglen Tokay 20 yrs plus

Muscadelle has been grown at All Saints Estate since the winery was established in 1864. The current vines were planted during 1962 and 1963. The fruit is handpicked when the sugar exceeds 24BA and crushed to release the sweet, concentrated juice. Pre fermentation cold soaking swells the shrivelled berries and extracts flavour from the skins. A minimum of fermentation occurs prior to fortification to 18%. The wine is a blend of selected vintages, stored in large oak ovals in the "chook shed" and racked to bottle as required.

A limited blend exhibiting golden amber colours and typical cold leaf tea characters. The palate is luscious with malty toffee and vanilla flavours. A wine with great balance and length to sip and savour.

Sip with blue cheeses such as Stilton, or enjoy with cheese or cream based desserts such as tiramisu. It can also be enjoyed on or beside vanilla ice cream, or try it with a fig pudding covered with butterscotch sauce. Chocolate is another good match.