Yes, that’s right 1929….the year the stock market crashed. This is a French vin doux naturel made from Muscat. Apparently the wine was hidden behind a false wall with out future generations being told. The wine was discovered only a few years ago (in cask). The cask was bottled in November 2000 and is amazingly fresh. After a little research a couple of years ago it was found out that this cask came from a reserve supply maintained by the local Rouissillon Cooperative - producers of virtually all of the area's wines in the early part of the 20th century. Vin Doux Naturel (a naturally sweet wine fortified by the addition of pure alcohol) are among Rouissillon and France's great dessert treasures. These wines are traditionally based on Muscat and Grenache Noir. They age magnificently due to their naturally higher alcohol and residual sugar. These same components keep the wine stable for weeks after the bottle is opened. This Late Bottled 1929 Rivesaltes is distinctive for its rich mahogany color, inviting caramel aromas and array of dried fruit and nut flavors. The finish is suggestive of orange peel. A well aged Rivesaltes plays the same time honored role as a Vintage Port. It can usher in a rich cheese course or amplify a great dessert, particularly fine chocolate and shelled nuts. |