By Christine Salins.
Muscat of Rutherglen
Just in time for summer and the festive season, the Winemakers of Rutherglen have launched an online wine store with a great selection of sparkling, table and fortified wines, highlighting what a diverse region it is.
Showcasing more than 70 wines from the region’s 18 wineries, the Rutherglen Regional Wine Store enables wine lovers to shop from home without having to access multiple websites or visit the cellar doors in person (as enjoyable as it is to visit!)
People can curate their own wine pack and shop multiple wine styles from different Rutherglen wineries, all in the one place.
The online store features many of Rutherglen’s leading varietals including styles that are synonymous with an Australian Christmas – think Sparkling Shiraz and pavlova, or Muscat and Christmas pudding.
It also has aromatic whites, racy rosés and bold reds — everything from classics like Shiraz, Durif and Riesling to lesser-known varietals such as Arneis, Arinto and Alvarinho.
Sparkling Shiraz
The platform offers people a chance to discover innovative styles that are being championed in the region through new wine techniques. Some of these include traditional varietals that have been refreshed to make great summer aperitifs.
Winemakers of Rutherglen executive officer, Annalee Nolan, says the online store is an important step forward for winemakers, opening up the historic region to more wine drinkers around the country.
Shipping is free for purchases over $200. Visit www.winemakers.com.au
For those who do want to visit the region, mark the weekend of March 11-12 in your calendar. That’s when Tastes of Rutherglen will once again showcase the best of the region’s award-winning wine and produce.
The following four wines are available through the online store and would make great additions to the Christmas table.
Andrew Buller Wines Sparkling Old Vine Shiraz, $35: If you’re looking for a gift for a wine lover, this sparkling red comes in a stunning bottle that makes it a perfect gift. Plus, it’s a mighty fine drop, rich and full flavoured with the addition of some Rare Muscat for good measure. Blueberry and blackberry notes with hints of chocolate and vanilla.
Campbells Wines Classic Rutherglen Muscat, $40: If you’ve visited Campbells and seen their magnificent solera, you’d appreciate the love and care that goes into every bottle produced by this historic winery. And, frankly, by world standards $40 for such a treasure is a bargain. Beautifully smooth and elegant, it smells like raisins and has coffee, chocolate, toffee and nutty characters, all of which makes it the perfect match for Christmas cake or Christmas pudding.
Pfeiffer Wines Seriously Pink Apera, $20: This Sherry-style wine is a fresh, fruity blend of
Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barocca, Tinta Cao and Shiraz. A striking pink colour, it is fragrant and fun and best served chilled or over ice. You could even top it with soda to enjoy on a summer’s day. It also makes a great aperitif.
Stanton & Killeen Wines 2021 Sparkling Tempranillo, $40: This is a little softer than many Aussie sparkling reds, with distinctive raspberry and cherry notes and some spicy, earthy undertones. Medium-bodied with a memorably long finish. Best served chilled.
