Muscat grapes are typically harvested between 18-20º Baumé, with some raisining occurring of the grapes. The grapes are crushed into static fermenters, where they are given a cold maceration for 3 days. Fermentation is started on skins (only 1-2%v/v), before the grapes are pressed into stainless steel tanks for fortification using a neutral grape spirit, leaving a sweet wine of around 17.5% v/v.
After fortification, the Muscat wines are clarified, then transferred into barrels and casks of different volumes for several years (anything between three and thirty). Most batches are kept separate, however some batches are blended for the maturation process. It is this maturation process that concentrates the wines and produces the rich, complex flavours of which Rutherglen Muscats are renowned. Our Pfeiffer Grand Rutherglen Muscat is blended from some of our oldest and most valued parcels to give an intense and powerful wine, of great complexity.
The Pfeiffer Grand Rutherglen Muscat is dark brown in colour, with some olive green hues. This wine has an enticing nose of floral Muscat fruit, sitting harmoniously with flavours of coffee and dark chocolate. The palate shows great depth and intensity, with powerful Muscat mid palate fruit, lovely aged character and wonderful length.