CHAMBERS Rosewood Vineyards

Vol.60 Christmas 2013( 02 6032 8641 7 02 6032 8101 + PO Box 8 Rutherglen 3685 : chambers@chambersroeswood.com.au

Barkly Street Rutherglen Victoria 3685, AUSTRALIA Editor - Roberta Horne

A U S T R A L I A ’ S T O P C E L L A R D O O RG o u r m e t T r a v e l l e r W I N E J u n e / J u l y 2 0 1 2

Consuming wine in moderation daily will help people to die young as late as possible. - Dr Philip Norrie

“Whether wine is a nourishment medicine or poison is a matter of dosage.” PARACELSUS (1493-1541)

WE HAVE IT ON GOOD AUTHORITY THAT...SANTA PREFERS MUSCAT !

Dear Reader,

Well, it’s happened again hasn’t it? We’re at the pointy end of the year and it’s time to get ready for all the fun family and friends times ahead.

As always we encourage you to get your wine orders in early so as to avoid, not only the rush, but also the warmer weather which is no doubt just around the corner too.

It might be just an illusion, but I have a theory that before Daylight Saving came in, time didn’t seem to accelerate at such a pace.

Like us, you’ve probably had a very full year so it’s great to look forward to some “patio wines” and casual entertaining—I’ve already cleaned my BBQ and I’m keen to fire it up and try out a few new dishes. Having said that I’m a bit worried about the flies and the mozzies as they seem to be on the wing already.

As this is the 60th edition of what Bill sometimes gleefully refers to as my “junk mail” I’d like to take the opportunity to thank you, our readers, for your support. It’s great to have your comments and input because that is what good communication is all about. We trust you continue to enjoy the newsletter as much as we delight in sharing our news, hopefully some interesting information and of course a bit of fun.

ALERT – PLEASE NOTEUnlike previous vintages of Walnut Muscat, the 2011 is only 15% alcohol and it is NOT SUITABLE TO FREEZE IN THE BOTTLE!

If you wish to make a ‘Muscarita’ you are best to use a plastic container in the freezer and check every hour to get the right consistency otherwise it will freeze solid with diabolical consequences.

Please know that we value your support and wish you and yours,wherever you may be, a wonderful Christmas & New Yearwith abundant health, happiness and prosperity in 2014.

From everyone here at Chambers Rosewood

• COMING EVENTS

John Dermer’s 36th Annual Exhibition - 30 November & 1 DecemberWinner of the highly prestigious Saltzbrand Keramik International Award in Koblenz, Germany, John’s wonderful ceramics are also in the new Parliament House in Canberra.

Tastes of Rutherglen Festival - Weekends 8-9 & 15-16 March 2014Bright sunny days, crisp evenings and all sorts of great food, wine and entertainment are hallmarks of this festival held during vintage each year. Join us for one (or both) weekends to see what the region has to offer.

You probably won’t want to share Louisa Morris’s indulgent tasting plate as it includes some of her finest desserts – a Lindt chocolate brownie, chocolate caramel tart, salted caramel macaroon and a raspberry tart with your choice of our 2003 Old Cellar or Rutherglen Muscadelle.

IT’S ALL ABOUT TASTE! Have you ever wondered how your sense of taste works? Take this fun scientific test to discover some fascinating facts about how your taste buds work. You’ll have a unique opportunity to ascertain your taste status. We believe this is the first time this test has been available in Australia and we’re really excited to be able to certify you as a Taster, Non Taster or Super Taster for just $5 per person.

‘The Best Book I’ve Ever Read’ is the theme for our Junior Art Competition this year and, as usual, the kids will knock your socks off with their creativity so don’t forget to vote for your favourite piece.

• LIVE MUSIC - NOON ‘TIL 5PM

Winner of the highly prestigious Saltzbrand Keramik International Music to listen to, chat to, think about, snack to and drink to with Something Velvet - a piano/vocal duo who describe their style as “alternative lounge.”

Their thoughtful selection of songs are perfectly matched to Lisa Cullen’s sultry voice as she performs heartfelt, honest versions of songs by artists such as Missy Higgins and Norah Jones.

If Leonard Cohen, Nick Cave and Johnny Cash are more your style, Paul Brosche can be persuaded to do some of their more reflective songs.

• SILLY SEASON SPECIALS

SLEIGH IT RIGHT 2 bottles x 2008 Rosewood Riesling2 bottles x 2009 Roussanne2 bottles x 2011 Light Muscat2 bottles x 2009 Autumn White2 bottles x 2006 Cabernet Merlot2 bottles x 2009 Shiraz $95 plus freight

BEST BARBIE IN TOWN 1 bottle x 2004 Sparkling Shiraz2 bottles x 2011 Light Muscat2 bottles x 2009 Bill’s Ambrosia3 bottles x 2009 Roussanne3 bottles x Rosewood Red1 bottle x 2011 Walnut Muscat $105 plus freight

NAUGHTY BUT NICE 4 bottles x Rosewood Red (Cleanskin)4 bottles x 2011 Light Muscat (Cleanskin)4 bottles x Rosewood White (Cleanskin)$ 65 plus freight

• AVAILABLE UNTIL SOLD OUT

THE ESSENSE OF SUMMER2 bottles x 2004 Sparkling Red2 bottles x 2010 The Family2 bottles x 2009 Autumn White2 bottles x 2009 Chardonnay2 bottles x 2009 Bill’s Ambrosia2 bottles x 2006 Cabernet Merlot$130 plus freight

BLITZEN’S BEST6 bottles x 2007 Shiraz6 bottles x 2004 Sparkling Shiraz$195 plus freight

RUDOLPH’S REDS3 bottles x 2006 Cabernet Merlot3 bottles x 2005 Shiraz & Blue Imperial3 bottles x 2007 Shiraz3 bottles x 2007 Merlot$130 plus freight

LITTLE TREASURES4 x 375ml bottles Rutherglen Muscat4 x 375ml bottles Rutherglen Muscadelle4 x 375ml bottles Mt Carmel$120 plus freight

• FLAGS & FANFARE

October 2013 issue Wine & Spirits (USA)“Australia Dessert 94 /100 Chambers Rutherglen Rare Muscat (US$300)“Spend some time with a glass of this wine to find more than its immediate textural bliss. The lots for this blend average 60 to 80 years old, the oldest dating to World War I. Air transforms the nutty scents of salted pecans, walnut skins and black fruit skin into compelling layers of that nut skin and fruit with a jazz riff of acidity. Intensely sweet and ferociously complex.”

Jancis Robinson 10 October 2013 Purple Pages100% Muscadelle RS 257.7 g/l. Screwcap! And the label does actually sayMuscadelle and not Topaque.“Brownish fox red. Extremely intense and a nose that suggests heat and age. So viscous! A hint of grainy cough medicine on the finish and lots of sweetness on the palate though the acidity just stops it being sickly. Very alive and intense. Makes the finger incredibly sticky! Obviously old and throbbing with life.”

• DID YOU HEAR ABOUT…

• The man who rang Manchester Police on the 999 number to complain that his wine was corked?• A Swedish survey of 34,100 women aged from 39 to 84 which found that those who drank at least three 150 ml sized glasses of wine a week, or the equivalent in beer or spirits, were more than 50% less likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis.• An unofficial industry claim that around 20% of global wine sales are for fake wines. Luckily an Italian cork producer has developed, and patented, a new smart cork which is imprinted with individual codes that allows users to verify a wine’s history via a smart-phone application so they can be sure they are getting exactly the wine for which they’ve paid.• Good value and good range are the two most important purchasing factors for online alcohol purchasers.• The findings of a UK survey which found that only about half of the respondents could taste the difference between expensive and inexpensive wine.• The newest addition to our cellar door offerings - we now have small packs of dried fruit and mixed nuts plus a new shipment of Classic and Rare Vintage polo shirts available.

• CRAB, APPLE & MANGO SALAD

The original, Epicure 2010, version of this recipe (see below) was served with Cumin Apple Chips but I prefer to serve it as is...absolutely perfect for entertaining during the warmer months.

Ingredients - Dressing :1 medium Granny Smith apple, chopped (1 cup), 2 tbsp chopped shallot, 1 large garlic clove, chopped, 2 tbsp cider vinegar, 3/4 teaspoon salt, 2/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil.

Ingredients - Salad :500gm crabmeat, 1/2 large firm-ripe mango, peeled, pitted and diced (1/2 cup), 1 medium Granny Smith apple diced, 1/3 cup chopped fresh coriander.

Preparation - Dressing:Purée apple, shallot and garlic with vinegar and salt in a blender, scraping down sides several times, until very smooth. With motor running, add oil in a slow stream, then blend until emulsified and very smooth (about 30 seconds). N.B: May be made 1 day ahead and chilled, covered.

Preparation - Salad: Gently stir together crab, mango, apple and coriander with 6 tablespoons of the dressing, season with salt. Drizzle plates with some of remaining dressing and serve immediately.

Wine Suggestion: 2010 The FamilyRead More http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Crabmeat-Apple-and-Mango-Salad-on-Cumin-Apple-Chips-105400#ixzz2kJ2fQLeU

• HOW ABOUT THAT!

• Researchers have found that when pouring white wine into a clear glass, most of us pour more than we would if we were pouring red wine into the same type of glass. Best to keep a watchful eye– you may be pouring more than you imagine. • According to The Australian Geothermal Energy Association 1% of Australia’s untapped geothermal power potential could provide enough energy to last us for 26,000 years!• We’re pleased to see that Aussies are responding to responsible drinking initiatives. This is reflected in figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics which show the average overall consumption of alcoholic drinks has dropped by no fewer than 56 standard alcoholic drinks. The other interesting fact is that we are now drinking more wine and less beer than we were in 2008.• If you weighed all the ants in Africa they would weigh more than ALL the Elephants!

• THE TOP 5 REAL LAWS OF NATURE

1. Law of Probability-The probability of being watched is directly proportional to the stupidity of your act.2. Law of Random Numbers- If you dial a wrong number, it’s never busy, someone always answers.3. Law of the Result - When you try to prove to someone that a machine won’t work, it will.4. Law of Biomechanics -The severity of the itch is inversely proportional to the reach.5. Law of Physical Appearance - If the clothes fit, they’re ugly.

• TASTING NOTE STEPHEN’S NEWLY RELEASED 2007 MERLOT

Maturing savoury flavours with plum,spice, licorice and pepper on the palate.Integrated tannins with a soft, rounded and flavourful finish.

If this is the back label on the cheekily named Noble Savage from South Africa, what’s to be found on the front label ???

• QUARTERLY CELLAR DOOR VISITOR DRAW

77 newsletter recipients identified themselves by jotting their surname, suburb and postcode in the small pad by the cash register this quarter. We are pleased to announce that J O’Loughlin of 4740 is the winner. Please ring us on 02 6032 8641 to claim your prize.

• SHERRY COBLER

Even though ‘Apera’ is now the correct name for this wine style, no one is going to pull you up for using the original name for this famous American cocktail as described by Jerry Thomas in The Bon-Vivants Companion of 1862. Keep in mind he was referring to small glasses, not the full sized wine glass we’d use today.

Ingredients:2 wine-glasses of sherry1 table-spoonful of sugar2 or 3 slices of orange

Instructions:Fill a tumbler with shaved ice, shake well, and ornament with berries in season.Serve with a straw.

• WHY MEN WEAR EARINGS

Did you ever wonder why earrings became so popular with men ? A man is at work one day when he notices that his co-worker is wearing an earring. The man knows his co-worker to be a normally conservative fellow, and is curious about his sudden change in “fashion sense” The man walks up to him and says, “I didn’t know you were into earrings.” “Don’t make such a big deal, it’s only an earring,” he replies sheepishly. His friend falls silent for a few minutes, but then his curiosity prods him to ask, “So, how long have you been wearing one ?” In a low voice he replied “Ever since my wife found it in my truck.”

• CHECK THESE OUT

• The irrepressible, one and only Max Walker puts the ‘Mo’ in Movember. As he says “it’s everybody’s cause so let’s all get involved, have fun and raise some extra funds.” http://youtu.be/8PKeyXM2GjI

• See http://www.youtube.com/embed/Y_m6p99l6ME?feature=player_embedded - a nifty battery check

• Glam up your cocktails - http://loungeattire.com/drinks/

• Wine appreciation with Hugh Laurie & Stephen Fry - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=engVsD1vuj4

• A small grant from the University of Adelaide’s Wine 2030 research network has resulted in the development of a new and what’s more FREE iPad app called the My Wine World guide to help us all not only learn more about wine but also rate and keep track of our favourites in a searchable archive. It is available from https://itunes.apple.com/au/app/my-wine-world/id688139480?mt=8 or visit the iTunes store.

• A LITTLE JOKE FOR YOU

A priest was invited to attend a house party. Naturally, he was properly dressed and wearing his Priest’s Collar. A little boy kept staring at him the entire evening. Finally, the priest asked the little boy what he was staring at. The little boy pointed to the priest’s neck. When the priest finally realized what the boy was pointing at, he asked the boy, “Do you know why I am wearing that?” The boy nodded his head yes, and replied, “It kills fleas and ticks for up to three months.”

Title______ First Name ______________ Surname________________________________________________________________________________________________ Phone No (____) ___________________Email___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Home Address_____________________________________________________________________________________________State_________ Postcode________ Delivery Address (if different from above)___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________State_________ Postcode_________ Is there somewhere we can leave your order if no one home? _______________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

FREIGHT RATES Per Item

Victoria $12 New South Wales $15 ACT $15 South Australia $15 Queensland $18 Tasmania $25 Western Australia $25 Northern Territory $25

PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING DETAILS

Mixed dozens can be shipped Flagons: up to 6 to a carton Payment must be forwarded with the order Prices may vary without notice The following bulk wines are available in 23 1/2 litre Containers— P.O.A. •Rosewood Ruby • Rosewood Tawny • Mt Carmel • Rutherglen Muscat • Rutherglen Muscadelle $10 Refundable Security Deposit for Containers We are happy to quote for the supply of unlabelled wines (cleanskins) for special occasions such as weddings & anniversaries

WHITE TABLE WINES Bottle Dozen Deals Qty Total 2011 Rosewood White (Dozens = Cleanskin) _____ $7 _____________ $65♥ ______ $ _____

2006 Riesling (Low Stock) ______________________ $12 ____________ $120♥ _____ $ _____

2009 Roussanne ________________________________ $10 ____________ $100♥ _____ $ _____

2004 Gouais ___________________________________ $10 ____________ $100♥ _____ $ _____

2010 The Family (Gouais, Riesling & Traminer) ______ $12 ____________ $120♥ _____ $ _____

2009 Chardonnay ______________________________ $12 ____________ $120♥ _____ $ _____

2008 Rosewood Riesling (Semi Sweet) _____________ $10 ____________ $100♥ _____ $ _____

2011 Light Muscat (Dozens = Cleanskin) _________ $7 _____________ $65♥ ______ $ _____

2009 Autumn White _____________________________ $10 ____________ $100♥ _____ $ _____

2009 Lakeside Late Harvest (Low Stock) ________ $10 ____________ $100♥ _____ $ _____

2011 Noble Muscadelle ________________________ $15 __ $180 _____ ___________ $ _____

RED TABLE WINES NV Rosewood Red (Dozens = Cleanskin) __________ $7 _____________ $65♥ ______ $ _____

2009 Bill’s Ambrosia (Rosé style) ___________________ $10 ____________ $100♥ _____ $ _____

2006 Blue Imperial ______________________________ $14 ____________ $140♥ _____ $ _____

2007 Shiraz (Low Stock) _________________________ $15 ____________ $150♥ _____ $ _____

2005 Shiraz & Blue Imperial _______________________ $10 ____________ $100♥ _____ $ _____

2007 Cabernet Sauvignon (French Oak) ________ $15 ____________ $150♥ _____ $ _____

2006 Cabernet Merlot __________________________ $10 ____________ $100♥ _____ $ _____

2008 Anton Ruch (Shiraz Mondeuse) _______________$20 ____ $240 ___ ___________ $ _____

2004 Sparkling Shiraz ___________________________ $20 ___ $240 ___ ___________ $ _____

2007 Merlot ___________________________________ $15 ____________ $150♥ _____ $ _____

Sub Total B/F ____ $ ___

Cheque / Money Order ⃞ Mastercard ⃞ Visa⃞

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Expiry _ _ /_ _ Signature_____________________________________

Please tick to certify you are over 18 years of age⃞ New Customer ⃞ Existing Customer⃞

FORTIFIED WINES Bottle Flagon Qty Total Dry Flor Apera ____________________________$16 ___________ _______ $ ______

Aged Dry Flor Apera (375ml) ______________$25 ___________ _______ $ ______

Sweet Amber Apera ______________________$17 ____________ _______ $ ______

Rosewood Cream ______________________ $17 ____ $35 __ _______ $ ______

Rosewood Ruby ________________________ $12 ____ $25 __ _______ $ ______

Rosewood Tawny ______________________ $12 ____ $25 __ _______ $ ______

Rosewood Old Tawny ___________________ $20 ___________ _______ $ ______

Mt Carmel _____________________________ $17 ____ $35 __________ $ ______

Sweet Cellar ____________________________ $8 ______ $15 __________ $ ______

1999 Vintage Ruby _____________________ $15 ___________ _______ $ ______

2003 Old Cellar (Vintage) _________________$20 ___________ _______ $ ______

Muscadelle (Rutherglen) __________________$17 ____ $35 __ _______ $ ______

Muscat (Rutherglen) ____________________ $18 ____ $36 __ _______ $ ______

2011 Walnut Muscat ____________________ $18 ___________ _______ $ ______

Old Vine Muscat (375ml) (Classic) _______ $20 ____________ _______ $ ______

Old Vine Muscadelle (375ml) (Classic) ___ $55 ___________ _______ $ ______

Grand Muscat (375ml) __________________ $55 ___________ _______ $ ______

Special Muscadelle (375ml) _____________ $100 ___________ _______ $ ______

Rare Muscat (375ml) ____________________ $250 __________ _______ $ ______

Rare Muscadelle (375ml) _______________ $250 __________ _______ $ ______

SEASONAL DEALS Price Qty Total

The Essence of Summer _________________ $130 ___________ ________ $ _____

Blitzen’s Best ____________________________ $195 ___________ ________ $ _____

Rudolph’s Reds _________________________ $130 ___________ ________ $ _____

Little Treasurers __________________________ $120 ___________ ________ $ _____

Sleigh it Right ___________________________ $95 ____________ ________ $ _____

Best Barbie in Town______________________ $105 ___________ ________ $ _____

Naughty but Nice _______________________ $65 ____________ ________ $ _____

Drum Deposit / Other _____________________________________________ $ _____

Freight (See details top left) ______________________________________ $______ Sub Total B/F $____

TOTAL $____

♥ = 12 bottles for the price of 10 ♦ = Change since last newsletter ● = When Available

Summer 2013 ORDER FORM (02) 6032 8641 02 6032 8101 chambers@chambersrosewood.com.au

www.chambersrosewood.com.au P O Box 8 Rutherglen 3685