Buller Muscat

Posted On December 27, 2007

One of the presents under my Christmas tree was a bottle of Buller Muscat. Buller have been using the solera method for their fine old wines since 1921. They draw off some to bottle from the older barrels, and top up with some new, so that the old can continually impart its character to the new. It means that some of the wine in the bottle will date from the original blend. This one is a Muscat at 18 percent, a reddish amber colour, and with a concentrated raisiny taste. It describes itself as “rich and luscious,” which indeed it is. It’s a nice alternative in situations where you might otherwise reach for port or Madeira, but I drink this one cold.