1999 Wendouree Muscat of Alexandria Clare Valley, South Australia 375ml

The Wendouree Muscat of Alexandria from Clare Valley, South Australia, is a rare and distinctive fortified dessert wine, made from old vines planted in 1940. While vintages vary, here’s a composite profile based on community reviews—particularly of the 2008 and 2019 bottlings:

Nose: Aromas of orange blossom, apricot, marzipan, and baking spice, with hints of tangerine, honey, and dried fruit. Some tasters also noted sherbet, white flowers, and a touch of minerality.

Palate: Rich and intense, offering flavors of orange jam, bitter marmalade, prunes, and toffee. The wine is lightly fortified, with a silky texture and a balance of zest, spice, and sweetness.

Finish: Long and warming, with lingering honeyed citrus, dried apricot, and a subtle nutty edge. Some vintages show a leaner texture, while others are more opulent and floral.

This wine is made in very small quantities using traditional methods in a historic 1914 winery. It’s a cult favorite among Australian wine lovers and pairs beautifully with almond desserts, fruit tarts, or aged cheeses.