NV Stanton & Killeen: Rutherglen Topaque

[Alex Bridgeman]

An Australian fortified wine made from Muscadelle, where the brandy is added just as fermentation starts. This is the entry level Topaque, made from wines matured in oak and having an average age of 2-4 years. Available for £15 from the Old Butcher's Wine Shop in Cookham.

A lovely golden colour, 20% opaque. Gentle nose of clover honey and tinned peaches. Pleasantly thick and oily on the palate with sweet clover honey and peaches in light syrup. Very sweet, lacking in the acidity which would be needed if this was to be the sort of wine which would invite several glasses to be drunk over the course of an evening. Sweet, floral honey aftertaste and a soft honey finish. Soft and gentle, a pleasant and enjoyable wine for those with a sweet tooth. 83/100. Drunk 29-Mar-18. Decanted 1 hour.