The NV Rosewood Vineyards Rare Muscat is deep brown in color with a faintly green rim. Earthy aromas of moss covered logs and damp earth lead to notes of raisin cake, gingerbread, toasted hazelnuts and anise plus a whiff of pepper. Very, very sweet, rich and thick, this wine is an extraordinary meal all its own. Epically long in the finish – this is an experience not to be missed.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

Not a Cellar Selection in the traditional sense of requiring additional aging, this venerable wine (it contains some material over 100 years old) is ready to drink now, but should hold in the bottle indefinitely. It’s dark coffee-brown, with delectable aromas of rancio, pressed flowers, molasses and honey, yet despite enormous concentration avoids excessive weight. Amazingly complex and fresh on the neverending finish. ——J.C.(2/1/2011)—— 100