The NV Rosewood Vineyards Grand Muscadelle gives a very deep brown color with a hint of green in the rim. Revealing an alluring nose of treacle (molasses), toasted walnut, dried mulberries, Christmas pudding, dark chocolate, preserved mandarin peel and espresso, this is an incredibly rich and thick mouthful with a great backbone of fresh acidity to enliven. The finish goes on and on delivering a whole pantry of dried fruit and spice flavors. Who needs crumby old dessert when you have nectar like this? One of the great names in Rutherglen fortifieds, Chambers is a family operated winery that was established by William Chambers in 1858. Today it is operated by fifth generation winemaker William Chambers and his son Stephen. These fortified wines are all bottled to drink now. The extended solera aging process has rendered them relatively stable to changes and they are now bottled under screw cap so that they can be stored for a good number of years.Importer: Old Bridge Cellars, Napa, CA; www.oldbridgecellars.com

Coffee-brown in color, with a hint of golden-yellow at the rim, Chambers Grand Muscadelle features intense aromas of caramelized walnuts and a pronounced rancio character, all tied together by molassesy sweetness. Viscous and wildly concentrated, it leaves a lasting impression on glassware and palate alike.——J.C.(2/1/2011)—— 93