Orange Muscat and Flora are two white grape varieties, little known or planted in Australia, that have been pioneered by Brown Brothers. Orange Muscat, as the name suggests, is part of the Muscat family and hails from the south-east of France. The variety is said to have derived its name from the golden hues the grapes take when fully ripe and the strong aroma of orange blossom given off at vintage when the grapes are freshly crushed. Flora was developed at the Californian Agricultural Department Station in 1958 from a cross between the white grapes Semillon and Gewürztraminer. It produces a wine of fragrance and body with a fresh acid backbone.
This luscious late harvested wine makes a perfect partner to a wide range of desserts. It would be wonderful served with a steamed orange and persimmon pudding, baked lemon tart, honey bavarois with grilled figs infused with orange, or an orange cake served with mascarpone. Alternatively, it would be delicious served with a washed rind cheese served with dried apricots and fresh pear.
