On 19 November, eager Christmas lovers will get a taste of magic with the release of the much anticipated 2015 Muscat de Noel.

Muscat de Noel (“Christmas Muscat”), made by winegrowers in the Roussillon region of France, is a special designation within the AOP Muscat de Rivesaltes, and is the first bottled Vin Doux Naturel of the new vintage.

A blend of two varietals – Muscat d’Alexandrie and Muscat à Petits grains – the wine is made according to the rigorous process known as mutage, in which neutral wine-based 96% alcohol is added to the must during fermentation (in a proportion of 5 to 10% of the must’s volume), in order to stop the yeast from converting all of the sugar into alcohol. That is how Muscat de Noel keeps part of its natural fruit sweetness.

This delicate treat pairs excellently with many celebration foods such as foie gras, white meats or fish. It is also the perfect friend to intense cheeses – Roquefort cheeses, especially. Taken out for dessert, it will do magic with pretty much all of your creations: from mango sorbet ice creams to lemon curd pies and, of course, to the traditional French Buche de Noel!

Since 1997, Muscat de Rivesaltes has been allowed to use the Muscat de Noel designation.
The following conditions relating to the production and marketing of Muscat de Noel – within the framework of the laws dealing with AOC “primeurs” wines – must be met:

• Bottling at the domain no later than December 1st
• Selling may begin the third Thursday of November
• Tasting of bottled wines
• Indication on the label of the vintage year, as well as the words “Muscat de Noel”

More information on the Muscat de Noel dedicated website (FR).