The Wine Companion
Steven Tanzer
The Wine Advocate
The Bothie - Steven Tanzer (IWC)
2009
(375 ml.) Pale, greenish straw. Shy aromas of green apple, white peach and nectarine, with a subtle spicy note in the background. Juicy pit fruit flavors are enlivened by lemon rind and orange, which mitigate the wine's luscious, sweet qualities. Lively for a sweet wine, finishing with excellent clarity and a lingering note of peach nectar.
2008
(375 ml.) Pale yellow. Pear and white peach aromas are complemented by sweet butter, honey and rose. Supple and gently sweet, with pliant orchard and pit fruit flavors and no rough edges. Balances sweetness against vivacity, and finishes with gentle lift and spicy persistence. This will work very well with washed-rind cheeses.
2007
100% Muscat Blanc. Bright silver-straw. Powerfully aromatic, alluring nose combines pit fruits, melon, tangerine and flowers with an energetic overlay of minerals. Juicy pit fruit nectar and soft citrus flavors are reined in by gentle acidity, which also lends focus. Pure, refreshing and clean, this would be fantastic with stinky cheeses.
2005
Bright straw. Pungent pear and yellow plum on the nose, with suave baking spices and citrus zest adding energy. Moderately sweet citrus marmalade flavors are enlivened by surprisingly brisk acidity, which contributes impressive clarity and cut. Juicy orange and pear flavors define the long, vibrant finish. I'd serve this as an aperitif or with pungent cheeses.
2004
Pale gold. Crisp scents of peach, ripe pear and dried apricot. Plump and juicy on the palate, with a clean, brisk peach flavor that is in no way cloying. Impressive for its svelte, focused character (too much sweet muscat comes off as flabby!). Finishes with focus and pretty floral notes. This would be great with salty or blue cheeses. I like this style.
2003
What can follow The Factor and Runrig?Cold beer, or this. Medium straw with a hint of pink. Musky, dusty aromas of peach, apricot and ripe pear, with suggestions of mint and rose. Soft and gently textured, with just off-dry peach, ripe apple and yellow plum flavors. Supple and juicy, finishing with soft acids and notes of orange marmalade and lemon curd.