A captivating dry white from Puchang Vineyard, one of China’s most remarkable estates in Xinjiang’s Turpan Valley, a desert region shaped by Silk Road history and extreme climate. Founded in 1975 and revitalised under organic management after 2008, Puchang crafts wines from traditional and local grape varieties that reflect its remote terroir. Made from 100 % Muscat Roudingxiang, hand picked and gently fermented in French oak with partial malolactic conversion, the 2018 release was aged in new Bordeaux barriques, developing rich, layered complexity. Aromas of chrysanthemum, pomelo, passionfruit and lychee mingle with hints of durian, jackfruit and subtle spice, while the dry, full bodied palate shows toasted almond, honeyed fruit and a long, vibrant finish. A rare Chinese wine that marries aromatic intrigue, texture and the bold energy of Xinjiang terroir.

Puchang Vineyard’s 2018 Muscat has a deep gold appearance. On the nose, there is plenty of Muscat character with fresh grapes, even a tropical fruit note in this hot region (mango, mangostene), white flower and a touch of honeyed development. On the palate, the 2018 Muscat is dry in style and full-bodied with slightly warming 14% alcohol, predictably low acidity and a pleasant core of varietally expressive fruit. The naturally bitter character of the variety is well-managed here, especially in the absence of sugar. With its moderate length, the 2018 Muscat is drinking well now and is not likely to improve in bottle (the risk is it will lose its Muscat emphasis and potentially smell of geraniol without developing positive tertiary). 88Pts - Edward Ragg, The Wine Advocate