Morris of Rutherglen Old Premium Rare Liqueur Topaque 500ml, Rutherglen

Average age of 20-plus years. Crushed, natural fermentation, pressed, neutral high strength spirit added, maturation starts in large oak and when identified as higher quality, moved to small oak; 309g/L RS. Offers a total immersion into Topaque, and it's one heck of a tasting experience. The colour of treacle, impenetrable. Deep, dense scents alive in rich, malty gingerbread, honeyed figs, vanilla, caramel-chocolate slice, Christmas pudding, dried fruits and more. For all its richness and sweet syrupy intensity, it remains accessible and in total balance with spirit. 500ml.

98 points Special Value Jeni Port Halliday Wine Companion

When his father Mick, one of Rutherglen’s favourite sons, retired in 1993 David became the fifth generation Morris to become winemaker at the company’s Mia Mia winery, 15km east of Rutherglen on the rich Brown’s Plains.

As the guardian of Morris Wines, David reveres his family’s rich history, yet humbly understates his own place within it. Today, David has earned a reputation as one of the world’s greatest fortified winemakers for his ability to create celebrated, world renowned wines year after year.

"The art of these wines lies in the blending of very old and much younger material. They have no equivalent in any other part of the world"

James Halliday Wine Companion 2016

Considered the lighter, finer cousin of Muscat, Topaque is produced from Muscadelle which is a white wine grape. The wine takes on a caramel hue from its extended time in oak and displays candied fruits, honey, toffee and a distinctive cold tea character on the palate. Created in four distinct styles, there is a Topaque for all occasions. A rich concentration of flavours, smooth and silky, with a honey butterscotch nose.

A true benchmark and highly awarded wine. Only the best vintages are selected for the Rare range, with all wine winning awards in major wine shows. A range of vintages are used and the art lies in the blending of very old and much younger material. The older wines impart intense, concentrated and luscious flavours with aged complexity.

These are complemented by fresh fruit characters from the younger wines. Topaque is often considered the delicate cousin to Muscat. Aromas of Christmas cake and cold tea delight the senses. The palate is incredibly rich and treacly with layers of butterscotch, ginger snap and spice flavours. Seriously concentrated with excellent depth, balance and length. This wine has an average age of 20 years.