6.3-6.4: Rutherglen Muscat - Wine Classifications & Wine Business

Question 1

When was the Muscat of Rutherglen Network founded?

Answer 1

1995

Question 2

What is the main aim of the Muscat of Rutherglen Network?

Answer 2

to promote sales of Rutherglen Muscat

Question 3

What did the Muscat of Rutherglen Network introduce? Describe the system.

Answer 3

• a classification system of four descriptions based on richness, complexity and intensity
• wines are classified on taste, rather than age – although age is a major factor that determines style
• as the level of classification increases, the number of vintages in the blend and the span of age between the oldest and youngest component wines will generally be greater

Question 4

What two styles are produced the most?

Answer 4

Rutherglen Muscat and Classic Rutherglen Muscat

Question 5

What are the 4 styles?

Answer 5

1. Rutherglen Muscat
2. Classic Rutherglen Muscat
3. Grand Rutherglen Muscat
4. Rare Rutherglen Muscat

Question 6

What are the requirements for Rutherglen Muscat?

Answer 6

• described as the foundation of the style
• average age 3-5 years
• residual sweetness 180-240 g/L

Question 7

What are the requirements for Classic Rutherglen Muscat?

Answer 7

• displays a greater level of concentration, complexity and tertiary flavours
• average age 6-10 years
• residual sweetness 200-280 g/L

Question 8

What are the requirements for Grand Rutherglen Muscat?

Answer 8

• displays even greater concentration and complexity from blending both young and very mature wines
• average age 11-19 years
• residual sweetness 270-400 g/L

Question 9

What are the requirements for Rare Rutherglen Muscat?

Answer 9

• bottled in tiny volumes
• represent the pinnacle of Rutherglen Muscat
• minimum average age 20 years – but wines in the blend can often be much older
• residual sweetness 270-400 g/L

Question 10

Describe most Rutherglen Muscat.

Answer 10

• medium garnet in colour
• pronounced aromas
• raisins, figs, dates, and sweet spices
• sweet on the palate
• full bodied
• medium (+) acidity
• medium alcohol for a fortified wine
• a pronounced intensity of flavours
• very good quality
• mid-priced

Question 11

Describe most Classic Rutherglen Muscat.

Answer 11

• deeper colour
• more concentration
• greater complexity
• quality and price is often between those of Rutherglen Muscat and Grand and Rare

Question 12

Describe most Grand and Rare Rutherglen Muscat.

Answer 12

• tawny or brown in colour
• more of a nutty, treacle, liquorice character
• even sweeter and fuller bodied than younger Rutherglen Muscats
• higher acidity
• still some degree of fruit to provide balance
• outstanding quality
• can reach super-premium prices

Question 13

Does Rutherglen Muscat improve further from bottle aging? When should it be drunk? Why?

Answer 13

• no
• fully mature on release and does not improve further from ageing in bottle
• should be drunk within a year or two after bottling to taste at its freshest

Question 14

Who produces Rutherglen Muscat?

Answer 14

• only a few wineries

- the majority belonging to the Muscat of Rutherglen Network

Question 15

Where are the grapes typically grown? Are they usually purchased?

Answer 15

• most wines are made entirely from estate-grown fruit

- some winemakers buy in a small amount from growers

Question 16

What percent of Australian wine sold globally do fortified wines account for?

Answer 16

2%

Question 17

What is the demand trend?

Answer 17

• growing but from a small base (Asia, Europe)

- slight growth in domestic market

Question 18

What are the key export markets?

Answer 18

• China
• UK
• USA

Question 19

Name 2 significant producers.

Answer 19

1. Campbells

2. Chambers Rosewood