Moscatel

The Moscatel grape, or Muscat, is a highly aromatic and versatile grape variety cultivated in wine regions worldwide. It is one of the oldest known grape varieties, with a long history dating back thousands of years.

It is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region, specifically in ancient Greece or Egypt. It has since spread to many wine-producing countries, including Spain, Italy, France, Portugal, Australia, South Africa, and the United States.

One of the distinctive characteristics of the Moscatel grape is its intense and captivating aroma. It often displays floral notes, such as orange blossom, rose petals, and jasmine, and fruit-driven aromas, like citrus, peach, apricot, and tropical fruits.

Moscatel is a versatile grape variety used to produce a range of wine styles. It can be used to make dry wines, showcasing the aromatic character alongside crisp acidity and balanced flavours. However, it is more commonly associated with producing sweet and fortified wines, including Muscat de Beaumes-de-Venise, Moscato d'Asti, and Muscat de Rivesaltes. These wines often exhibit luscious sweetness, rich fruit flavours, and a characteristic grapey taste.

In addition to still and fortified wines, the Moscatel grape produces sparkling wines, such as Moscato d'Asti and Asti Spumante, known for their light effervescence and fruity character.