Sales of the sweet, slightly fizzy low alcohol wine have exploded in the USA in the last few years, increasing by over 100% in 2011 alone and wine industry sources are predicting a similar boost in the UK. Part of Moscato's current popularity can probably be attributed to it's adoption as the drink of choice for a number of prominent American Rap Artists- it's been named dropped by Kanye West, Lil' Kim and others and it's especially popular among twentysomethings. Another issue is the increasing interest in lower alcohol wines - Moscatos are typically around 5-6% ABV.
Much of the Moscato sold in the United States, and over here, is cheap, mass-produced and to many palates overly sweet and lacking in balance and complexity. But it doesn't have to be that way! Moscato D'Asti is made from the Muscat grape (Moscato is Italian for Muscat) in the Piedmont region in the North West of Italy - the home of Barolo, Barbaresco and Gavi. At it's best it can be a delightfully light wine with aromas of peaches, nectarines and orange blossom and a refreshing spritz. Our Moscato d'Asti is from Gianni Voerzio, one of Piedmont's most respected winemakers and is considered among the best in the world. It's not the cheapest but as an occasional weekend treat it's sure to please.
Of course the quality New World producers haven't been resting on their laurels. From Australia's Murray River region Innocent Bystander Pink Moscato is great fun and really scrummy (there's no other word for it!) Think watermelon, sherbet and rose Turkish Delight. At just 5.5% alcohol it's ideal for afternoon drinking.
We'll be looking to expand our range of Moscato in the coming months so if it sounds like your kind of wine watch this space!
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