Muscat Info?

[Wolfpack]

I am new to wine. I have a friend who really likes the muscat variety. Can anyone help me figure out a really good brand/type to buy? Also, is it possible to purchase one with a 1961 vintage? Thanks for any help possible.

[winoweenie]

Hi Wolfpack. Thought surely someone more qualified than myself would step up to the plate but as IK must have overslept here goes. My few encounters with Muscat have been on the dessert style such as made by Martini. Don't think there's a chance in hades of even finding a 91 much less a 61 as the grape is not designed for aging. Good Luck. WW

[Auburnwine]

The only muscats I have had are dessert wines (sweet wines designed to go after the meal, with things like blue cheese, dates and almonds). They can be wonderful -- but in small doses, because of their intensity and sweetness.

I am most familiar with Australian muscats, like the Yalumba Non-Vintage Victoria Museum Release. Some are just marvelous, full of extraordinary flavors and depths. They are reasonably priced ($15 or so for a half-bottle -- all that you need for several friends).

I am not sure that these are a place to BEGIN learning about wine tasting, but they are certainly a lovely destination along the journey.

[Wolfpack]

Thanks a lot for the information. I will try looking for the Australian muscats. Thanks again.

[winedope1]

Welcome, Wolfpack. A nice Muscat to try would be the Electra orange muscat, by Quady. Mondavi also has a good Muscat, but it would be a little more expensive (still affordable, though).