Moscato is a tasty, popular wine that originates in Italy. There are both red and white variants, though the white varieties are most popular. Its low alcohol content, easiness to drink, and sweetness play a major role in its increasing popularity. Moscato has orange, peach, and nectarine flavoring, putting in the category of fruitier wines. The wine originates from a grape that is also used in making raisins and is commonly used for eating. This grape is called a Muscat Grape and it contains a large amount of sugar, leading it to have a sweet flavor. Most Moscato is from the Piedmont region of Italy.
There are three prominent kinds of Moscato:
Sparkling Moscato d'Asti
This is the most popular Moscato. Mostly found in Italy, this kind is sweet, bubbly and renown for its low alcohol content ( about 5-6% ABV). Usually, this type is made from white Muscat Blanc grapes.
Muscat Blanc or Moscatel
Though not as common as Sparkling Moscato d'Asti, this style is just as tasty. Its color is white and it is produced from the Muscat Blanc or Zibibbo grape. The alcohol content is generally around 12% ABV.
Dessert Moscato
Made from Moscatel, this variety is mostly found in the United States, Australia, Southern Spain, and the South of France. It has a tawny color and a thick, oily texture.
Another popular type is Pink Moscato. It is a variation of the wine that mixes the Muscat Blanc grape with another common wine, Merlot. Its composition gives it a flavor that cannot be compared to other wines. Like other Moscato, Pink Moscato has the peach, citrus, and nectarine flavors, but it also has rich caramel and vanilla notes. It is a wine that is great alone or with food.
Many wines gain popularity through wine merchants or sommeliers. This is not the case when it comes to Moscato. In fact, it can thank the world of hip-hop music for its widespread adoration. Though it is unknown why it is so loved by rappers, many of them have incorporated the name into their lyrics. In the United States, Moscato is the quickest growing wine on the market, gaining in popularity by 25 percent in the last three years. It does not seem as though it will lose its popularity anytime soon.
Moscato is a great wine to consume on its own. But, many people enjoy drinking it with spicy foods, as well. The wine's sweetness along with the spiciness of these foods make for the perfect combination. It is also common to sip on when eating medium-firm cheeses, duck, lobster, crab, and tofu.
Most wines have their own distinct smell, making them easy to identify by both novices and wine experts alike. Moscato has an even more unique scent than other wines. It is believed by scientists that the uniqueness comes from its floral aromatics and linalool, a natural chemical compound commonly found in citrus flowers, mint, and cinnamon.
If you are looking to discover the Best Wines you can check out my Top Five Best Moscato Wines List.