N.V. Kalyra Orange Muscat Sticky Wicket - USA, California, Central Coast, Santa Ynez Valley (3/2/2008) This dessert - a "sticky" as they apparently call them in Australia - is an attractive orange and caramel hue. The nose is a heady concoction of orange blossoms, apricots, honey, and a hint of petrol. It looks viscous when swirling, but tastes very light on its feet. The flavor profile is a one-trick pony - I'm buried under an avalanche of apricots. To be generous, there's also a slight orange peel twist, dipped in clover honey. The sweetness is light and refreshing, not cloying. That's a good thing, because the acidity is low - lower than I remember in the past. Finish is medium length. Unlike other fortified wines, I can easily enjoy a second glass. I've been a member of Kalyra's wine club for a year, and over that time, I've focused my subscription solely on their late harvest and fortified sweets, because they really are delicious values. (90 pts.)
