Moscato d'Asti is a sweet sparkling wine produced in the northwestern Italian region of Piedmont. It is made exclusively from the Moscato Bianco grape variety and boasts a unique combination of aromatic sweetness and refreshing acidity.
The Moscato d'Asti winemaking tradition dates back to the Middle Ages. In the 14th century, the wine was known as "Asti Moscato" and was highly prized by the Savoy court. By the 19th century, Moscato d'Asti had become a popular export to other parts of Europe and beyond.
Moscato d'Asti is produced using the "Metodo Charmat", also known as the "tank method". In this process, the grapes are gently pressed and fermented in stainless steel tanks. The fermentation process is interrupted before all of the sugar has been converted into alcohol, leaving a residual sweetness in the wine. Carbon dioxide is then injected, creating the wine's characteristic sparkle.
Moscato d'Asti is distinguished by its:
Moscato d'Asti is a versatile wine that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of foods. It is particularly well-suited to:
The Moscato Bianco grapes for Moscato d'Asti are harvested manually in late September or early October, when they have reached optimal ripeness.
The grapes are then destemmed (removed from the stems) and gently crushed. The juice is called "must".
The must is then transferred to stainless steel tanks, where it undergoes a primary fermentation at a controlled temperature. During this process, yeast converts the grape sugars into alcohol and carbon dioxide.
When the desired sweetness is achieved, fermentation is interrupted by chilling the wine. This leaves a residual sugar content of about 5%.
The wine is then transferred to pressurized tanks for a secondary fermentation. This process creates the characteristic bubbles of Moscato d'Asti.
After secondary fermentation, the wine is aged for a short period of time before being bottled.
Characteristic | Moscato d'Asti | Other Sweet Wines |
---|---|---|
Grape Variety | Moscato Bianco | Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Sauvignon Blanc |
Origin | Piedmont, Italy | Various regions worldwide |
Alcohol Content | 5.5% - 6.5% | 8% - 12% or higher |
Residual Sugar | 5% | Varies widely |
Bubbles | Fine and persistent | Can vary from still to sparkling |
Aroma | Fruity, floral | May include notes of citrus, tropical fruit, or honey |
Flavor | Sweet, balanced acidity | Can range from sweet to very sweet |
Nutrient | Per 5-ounce Glass |
---|---|
Calories | 100 |
Carbohydrates | 6 grams |
Sugar | 5 grams |
Alcohol | 5.5% - 6.5% |
Resveratrol | 1-2 mg |
Producer | Region | Notable Characteristics |
---|---|---|
Cascina Gilli | Canelli | Known for their traditional methods and elegant wines |
Gancia | Canelli | One of the largest and most respected producers |
Martini & Rossi | Pessione | Produces a wide range of Moscato d'Asti styles |
Michele Chiarlo | Calamandrana | Renowned for their high-quality, single-vineyard wines |
Vietti | Castiglione Falletto | Produces a distinctive Moscato d'Asti with a hint of orange zest |
Serving Occasion | Food Pairing |
---|---|
Aperitif | Fruit platter, cheese and crackers |
Dessert | Tiramisu, panna cotta, fruit tarts |
Light Lunch | Seafood salad, grilled chicken with fruit salsa |
Picnic | Sandwiches, salads, fruit |
Special Occasions | As a celebratory toast or with a festive dessert |
Indulge in the sweet and refreshing pleasure of Moscato d'Asti today. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a relaxed evening at home, or simply looking for a sip of sunshine in a glass, this exquisite Italian wine will delight your senses. Explore the world of Moscato d'Asti and discover the perfect pairing for your taste and mood.
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