Wines Unspecified Andrew Quady - Elysium - 1997

Andrew Quady’s Elysium 1997 is a remarkable Californian red, crafted from the Black Muscat grape variety. Unlike the more common interpretations of Muscat, which often trend towards freshness and aromatic lightness, Elysium is known for its particularly deep colour, lush concentration, and pronounced aromatic character. The 1997 vintage was marked by favourable weather across California’s AVAs, which allowed for optimal ripening, resulting in expressive fruit and balanced structure. The winemaking at Andrew Quady is notable for a focus on extracting abundance of aroma and flavour from the Black Muscat, with fermentation halted early by fortification to retain some natural sweetness, making this an off-dry rather than truly dry style despite the “sec” classification. The result is a wine showing intense notes of rose petal, ripe cherries, blackberry, and hints of spice, all wrapped in a velvety texture.

California’s AVAs benefit from a Mediterranean climate of warm, sunny days and cool nights, moderated often by fog or Pacific breezes. The soils are diverse, but in the sites favoured by Quady, sandy loams allow for excellent drainage, further concentrating flavours in the fruit. While viticulture in California dates back to the 18th century, the late 20th century saw an explosion in quality and variety, with producers like Andrew Quady carving a niche for lesser-known varieties and innovative winemaking. These factors converge to give Elysium its depth and idiosyncratic character.

Given its aromatic intensity and residual sweetness, Elysium pairs beautifully with dishes that can stand up to its bold personality. Serve it with a classic duck à l’orange, spiced venison, or rich patés for a harmonious balance. It also excels alongside desserts such as chocolate tarts, berry compotes, or blue cheese, especially appealing with Californian cheeseboards.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine slightly chilled at 12-14°C. This enhances its fruit profile while preserving freshness and balance. Consider decanting if any sediment is present, and savour the evolving aromas in your glass.