Wines Muscat de Rivesaltes Château Nouvelles - Cuvée Prestige - 2007

Château Nouvelles’ Muscat de Rivesaltes 2007 Cuvée Prestige is a fine example of a fortified sweet wine from one of France’s most celebrated appellations for Muscat-based vin doux naturel. Produced in the sun-drenched region of Roussillon, this cuvée traditionally stems from Muscat à Petits Grains and/or Muscat d’Alexandrie, grapes renowned for their expressive aromatics and fresh, vivid fruit character. The 2007 vintage benefits from extended maturation, which has likely developed notes of candied citrus, honeyed apricots, orange blossom and subtle, nutty complexity from oxidative ageing. Vinification typically follows the mutage process, with alcohol being added to halt fermentation and thus preserve the grapes’ natural sweetness and aromatic potential, while also stabilising the wine for long-term bottle ageing.

The Roussillon region, located in the far south of France near the Spanish border, enjoys a hot Mediterranean climate, with ample sunshine, cooling sea breezes, and the influence of the Tramontane wind. This combination promotes the slow, optimal ripening of grapes suited to sweet wine production. The soils around Rivesaltes are diverse, often comprising schist, limestone, and clay-limestone mixes, contributing both freshness and minerality to the resulting wines. While the tradition of vin doux naturel dates back to the 13th century, the region remains one of the world’s strongholds for this unique style, offering wines with both opulence and balance.

Such a luscious, aromatic sweet wine finds brilliant harmony with both local and international gastronomy. Pair it as tradition suggests with blue cheeses like Roquefort, or with classic desserts such as tarte au citron, fruit-based tarts, or even a crème brûlée. For a more regional touch, consider it alongside Catalan almond pastries or touron. Its freshness also offers an inspired contrast to spicy Asian dishes or foie gras.

Serve this Muscat de Rivesaltes well-chilled, ideally around 8-10°C, in a tulip-shaped glass to concentrate its aromatic bouquet. Once opened, the wine will retain its character for several weeks, allowing you to savour its qualities on multiple occasions.