Moscato -- How Sweet It Is

​Let’s get sweet. Sweet wine, that is.

If you have ever been judged for drinking a sweet wine like, Moscato, it is not the sweetest varietal on the wine list.

Topping the list as the sweetest wine is, Tokaji Eszencia. Joining Tokaji is Port, Sherry, Mead and Moscato.

As a savory person in both food and drink, I eschew most sweet wines, but today, I bring you words from a bona-fide Moscato sipper. Connoisseur? The jury is still out on that one.

Oh, thanks for coming back to my Mediocre Class on wine. My Gigi’s Wine Shelf blog, the moniker represents my lack of a cellar and my natural ability to shun anything pretentious.

Now, about Gerry (pronounced Gary) and his affection for wine. Before I share his thoughts, let me add he is a fabulous cocktail mixologist, and not that drawn to wine. But, he also has a sense of fun, not to mention propriety, so wine enters the journey along the way.

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​Just a bit of info about Moscato. It is created from the muscat grape (so named for their musky aroma) which is one of the oldest varieties in the world. Grown in many countries, including California, France, Italy, Portugal and Japan. However, it is indigenous to Italy, and is also known as Muscatel. Harvested in California between August ot November. Aging Moscato is not necessarily, but the age and history of the Muscat grape is fascinating and historically rich.

Now, let’s check in with that lover of all things sweet, Gerry. 

Gigi: Is Moscato always your go-to wine?”

Yes, my preference. 

Gigi: “Why do you like this particular wine so much? Do you ever branch out and sample other
varietals?”

 One word -- sweet. I'm just one of those people who prefers sweet to savory in almost everything, and
Moscato is sweet without being cloyingly sweet. Yes, there is such a thing as too sweet. I do branch out -
- Sangria is another one of my "go-to" beverages -- but I mostly stick with what I like.

Gigi: "Is producer or region ever a consideration, or is it always price?”

Depends. I like to stay under $10, but if a bottle looks interesting, I'll spring for more. Typically, sparkling Moscato will cost a bit more and can be worth it. My system is try something and see how I like it. For example, I have a new Moscato from Italy that is delicious, and under $10. Costco has a tropical version that is around $8, and very good.

Gigi: “How do you typically enjoy drinking it (with food, on its own)?"

 Mostly on its own, with light snacks, like crackers or cheese.

Gigi: "Have you ever tried a similar wine that surprised you?"

I have tried several Rieslings, which I also enjoy, but gravitate toward Moscato.

Gigi: "What is the most interesting wine you've ever tasted, and why?”

 One wine that stands out was an ice wine we bought while on a trip to the New York wine country. At that
point, I had never tried ice wine and it was a revelation. Sweet and full-bodied, as the wine critics say.

Gigi: “Do you feel unfairly judged when ordering Moscato?”

100 percent, yes. Whether at a nice restaurant, on a cruise ship or a smart dinner party, I almost never
fail to get the side-eye when I ask for Moscato. It's like I just arrived from Mars. And many times it's not
even stocked, so I have to revert to Riesling. I can't be the only one who drinks it -- Total Wine has a
whole section devoted to it.

Gigi: “Do you ever take time to research the aging process, as I believe Moscato ages quickly.”

Honestly, no. I don't think about age in any context. If it's chilled and taste good, that's all that matters.