Muscadelle

Often the third (of course in a last but by no means least sense – let’s play nicely) component of Bordeaux’s white wines - the other two being Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc. More often, however, it is found in super sweet wines, particularly in Australia. Muscadelle is now sadly falling more and more out of favour though, it lacks the ability to age and develop like its good friends Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon, so it’s slightly falling by the way side. On a side note, the Aussie’s sometimes refer to it as Topaque.
 
What am I getting?
Muscadelle is often used as a blending ingredient in Bordeaux’s sweet Sauternes wines. Think of honeyed apricots, butterscotch, caramel and maybe some citrus-y themes too. The Rutherglen fortified wines made from Muscat tend to be equally sweet and think, critic Jancis Robinson compares to Christmas Pudding.
 
What can I drink it with?
Sweet wines need sweet food, so it’s time for pudding. Think almond tart, lemon tart, meringues and custards…ideally not chocolate though. Savoury foods can also make for a really nice contrast, so Roquefort or Livarot cheese would be a match made in heaven, or if you’re feeling fancy then maybe some foie gras.
 
I want it!
Something to satisfy your sweet tooth then…
Let's not go crazy…
Château les Sablines Monbazillac 2009 (sweet, France) £8.50 per bottle
All out!
Chambers Rosewood Vineyards Rutherglen Muscat NV (sweet, Australia) £12.00 per bottle