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 Magical
Moscato
By John W. Schultz
Seattle sunshine, a deck, and a glass of chilled
Moscato d'Asti ...Perfection! For great summertime drinking, too few
are familiar with the wonderful Italian white wine, "Moscato
d'Asti."
Most wine drinkers have had a glass or two of the ever-popular
Asti Spumante, which is similar to very sweet Champagne. Moscato
d'Asti however is different. It must come from the DOCG area of
Piedmont in Italy, and is made from the soft pressing of the white
Muscat grape. This elegant and subtle wine is slightly
"frizzante," a term for a light sparkling quality, which
blends with the nice, vibrant acidity to make it dance on your
tongue. Starting with the bouquet of stunning floral perfume and
following with the crisp juicy flavors of white peach, melon, and
honey, Moscato is lush on the pallet, very smooth and easy
drinking. Thank goodness it's low in alcohol (typically around 5%)
because it goes down easily and quickly! It is considered a sweet
wine, yet does not drink like one, due the great balance and crisp
acids.
I toasted to my fiancé as I proposed marriage under the stars
with a glass of Ceretto Santo Stefano Moscato d'Asti. It was
certainly a hint of the "la dolce vita" we would share.
Here are some of the best offerings of Moscato d'Asti currently
available at Esquin Wine Shop:
- Dante Rivetti Moscato d'Asti 2000 - $14
- Coppo Moscato d'Asti Moncalvina 2000 - $17
- Icardi Moscato d'Asti 2000 - $9 (375ml)
- Ceretto Santo Stefano Moscato d'Asti 2000 - $20
(This is my personal favorite!)
Moscato d'Asti makes an exceptional dessert wine, but is also
versatile enough to serve as an aperitif. Served alone, it is one
of the most refreshing wines in the world; what could be better on
a hot summer day? One final note: Moscato d'Asti is always best
consumed within two years of the vintage on the label.
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