Moscato: What Is Moscato & How Is It Made?

Moscato, a captivating member of the wine family, has emerged as a favorite for its sweet and aromatic profile. In this page, we’ll uncover the process of making Moscato, look into its history, discover regions acclaimed for this varietal, explore food pairings, and shake up the scene with three popular Moscato cocktails.

What is Moscato?

Moscato, derived from the Muscat grape family, stands out for its sweet and fruity characteristics. This white wine variety has become synonymous with a delightful touch of sweetness and a fragrant bouquet. Originating from ancient Mediterranean vineyards, Moscato has evolved into a global sensation, adored for its approachable taste.

This wine, often white or Rosé, boasts a lower alcohol content compared to traditional white wines. Renowned for its sweet and fruity profile, Moscato is celebrated for its enchanting flavors, notably reminiscent of peaches and orange blossom.

How is Moscato Made?

1. Harvesting: The winemaking journey begins with the careful harvest of Muscat grapes. Timing is crucial, as vintners aim to capture the grapes at peak ripeness, ensuring a harmonious balance between sugars and acidity.
2. Crushing and Pressing: Post-harvest, the grapes undergo a gentle crushing process to extract their luscious juice. This juice, laden with the essence of Muscat grapes, forms the foundation for Moscato.
3. Fermentation: The juice embarks on a journey of fermentation, where natural or added yeast converts sugars into alcohol. This crucial phase significantly shapes the final flavor profile of Moscato.
4. Aging (Optional): Moscato is often enjoyed in its youthful state, preserving the vibrant fruitiness. While some variations may undergo brief aging, the emphasis remains on maintaining the wine’s fresh and lively character.

A Glimpse into Moscato’s History

The Muscat grape is believed to have originated in Greece, the Middle East, or even Ancient Egypt before being introduced to Italy and France during Roman times. Its historical journey eventually led it to spread across the globe.

The traditional heartland of Moscato is in Asti, within Italy’s Piedmont region, where it has been made since the early 13th century. This lineage establishes it as one of the most ancient grape varieties continually in common use.

With such a rich history and widespread cultivation, the Muscat grape has undergone numerous mutations. Presently, there are more than 200 different varieties, an astonishing diversity that surpasses that of any other grape varietal.

What Are The Different Types of Moscato?

1. Sparkling & Semi-Sparkling Moscato (Bubbly Muscat):
   • Italian Classics: Moscato d’Asti (semi-sparkling) and Asti Spumante (sparkling) are the shining stars. Both boast Italy’s prestigious DOCG classification.
   • Sensory Delight: These versions enchant with vibrant orange blossom and peach aromas. Slightly effervescent, they strike a perfect balance between sweetness and acidity.
2. Still Moscato (Muscat):
   • Serene Sophistication: Without the bubbles and less sweetness than their sparkling counterparts, still Moscato, made from Muscat Blanc grapes, presents a dry and elegant profile.
   • Illusion of Sweetness: Despite their dry nature, the sweet, fruity aromas might playfully deceive your senses.
3. Pink Moscato:
   • Blushing Fusion: A delightful blend of Muscat grapes and a hint of Merlot imparts the rosy hue. Pink Moscato dances on the palate with intensified strawberry notes and a touch of acidity.
   • Laid-Back Enjoyment: While it might be considered a “loose” Moscato, its lively character makes it a playful and enjoyable choice.
4. Red Moscato (Black Muscat):
   • Rarity Unveiled: Made from the elusive Black Muscat grape, a cross between Schiava Italian and Muscat of Alexandria, Red Moscato is a rare gem.
   • Unique Tasting Experience: Indulge in the distinctive flavors of Black Muscat, offering a unique twist on the traditional Moscato experience.
5. Moscato Dessert Wines:
   • Sweet Sensations: For those with an insatiable sweet tooth, dessert-style Moscato takes sweetness to new heights. Grapes are often partially dried to enhance sweetness and introduce caramel notes.
   • Global Variations: Explore the Greek Muscat of Samos, Southern Spain’s Moscatel Sherry, French Muscat, Portugal’s Moscatel de Setubal, or Australia’s luscious Rutherglen Muscat for a diverse range of sweet indulgences.

World’s Best Moscato Regions

1. Italy – Asti and Piedmont: Italy, particularly the Asti region in Piedmont, is hailed as the Moscato capital. Asti’s rolling hills and favorable climate produce Moscato d’Asti, a sparkling and aromatic rendition of this varietal.
2. Spain – Andalusia: In the southern region of Andalusia, Spain, Muscat grapes thrive under the warm sun, giving rise to delightful Moscatel wines known for their aromatic and sweet nature.
3. Australia – Victoria: Australia, particularly the Victoria region, has gained recognition for its fruit-forward Moscato expressions. These wines often boast a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.

Best Foods to Pair with Moscato

1. Fresh Fruits: The natural sweetness of Moscato complements the juiciness of fresh fruits, creating a harmonious pairing. Think berries, melons, and stone fruits.
2. Spicy Cuisine: Moscato’s sweetness provides a delightful contrast to spicy dishes, making it an ideal companion for spicy Thai, Indian, or Mexican cuisines.
3. Cheese Platters: Soft and creamy cheeses, such as Brie or Camembert, find a perfect partner in Moscato. The wine’s sweetness offsets the richness of the cheese.

See some other of the best cheese and wine pairings.

Three Popular Moscato Cocktails

1. Moscato Spritzer:
   • Ingredients: Moscato, soda water, fresh mint, and sliced citrus fruits.
   • Method: Mix Moscato and soda water over ice, garnish with mint and citrus slices.
2. Moscato Sangria:
   • Ingredients: Moscato, orange juice, mixed fruits (berries, citrus), and a splash of brandy.
   • Method: Combine all ingredients in a pitcher and refrigerate. Serve over ice.
3. Moscato Lemonade:
   • Ingredients: Moscato, lemonade, and lemon slices.
   • Method: Mix Moscato and lemonade, serve over ice, and garnish with lemon slices.

Moscato – A Sweet Treat

As we savor the sweet symphony of Moscato, we appreciate its journey from ancient vineyards to global prominence. Whether enjoyed in the picturesque landscapes of Italy or the vibrant wine regions of Australia, Moscato continues to captivate wine enthusiasts with its irresistible charm.

Here’s to the sweet elegance of Moscato, a white wine that transcends borders and brings joy to every sip. Cheers!