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It seems like every year, an unexpected wine trend suddenly emerges from the background and takes the wine-consuming public by storm. Last year’s surprise hit was Prosecco, the light, fruity, off-dry Northern Italian sparkling wine. The rise of this year’s dark horse, Moscato, has been even more meteoric. In fact, Moscato is currently the fastest growing wine type in the United States.
Prosecco’s growth is limited by the fact that it is only produced in two styles – full sparkling and frizzante (half sparkling). The Moscato grape and its various clones, on the other hand, are used to produce Moscato di Asti (half sparkling), Spumante (full sparkling), and a growing number of non-sparkling table wines.
The Moscato grape variety, while planted and enjoyed all over the world, first gained popularity in the United States as Asti Spumante, some years ago. Asti Spumante, which has since been shortened to simply “Asti,” is a full sparkling wine from Northern Italy. Asti sparkling wine exhibits flavors of peach, almond, and apricot, and is quite sweet. Many consumers loved the fresh fruit flavors of Moscato-based bubbly, but found Asti to be just a little too sweet.
This year in particular, American consumers have discovered the Asti alternative – Moscato di Asti. It has about half the sweetness of Asti, and about half the bubbles. It’s literally a less sweet, less effervescent version of Asti. This style has become so popular that some wineries, even large ones, are having a difficult time keeping up with the insatiable demand in the US market.
At the same time, non-sparkling Moscato wines have begun flooding the market. These wines have much of the same appeal as Moscato di Asti, but without the bubbles. They’re light, fruity, sweet, and generally priced under eight dollars, which hits the “sweet spot” if you will, for many consumers.
Moscato wines are friendly and approachable, fun to serve, and can be enjoyed by everyone. Best of all, their easy-to-drink nature adds a festive touch to any holiday setting. Try some Moscato bubbly and non-bubbly, and see what all the fuss is about.
Cheers!
Astoria Lounge Sparkling Moscato, Italy ($)
Like the seal on the bottle says, “Vino Spumante Dolce” - or sweet sparkling wine. The bubbles are fine and persistent and carry enticing aromas of freshly sliced peaches. The finish is creamy, soft, and extended. At only 7 percent alcohol this is a great wine to serve before or after a holiday celebration meal.
Casa di Rocco Moscato di Asti DOCG, Italy ($)
Darker in color than the sparkling Moscato and as advertised, less sweet and with fewer bubbles. The wonderful flavors and aromas are reminiscent of fresh apples, apricot, and ripe citrus. It’s hard to imagine an occasion where this cork finished wine would not be welcome.
Rex Goliath Moscato, California ($)
Light straw in color with flavors bursting of white peach and tropical fruits. While this wine is quite sweet it is nicely balanced and finishes clean and refreshing. This may not be my favorite dinner wine, however, I’m quite positive that Rex Moscato could easily work its way into any number of holiday celebrations – it’s as they say, a crowd pleaser.
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