Moscato Wine: What It Is, How It's Made, and Why Everyone Loves It

Moscato Wine: What It Is, How It's Made, and Why Everyone Loves It

If you've ever sipped a glass of sweet, fruity white wine and thought, “This is dangerously easy to drink,” chances are it was Moscato wine. Beloved for its low alcohol content, floral aroma, and signature sweetness, Moscato has become a favorite among casual wine drinkers and connoisseurs alike.

In this guide, we'll explore what Moscato wine is, where it comes from, how it's made, and why it continues to gain popularity around the world.

What Is Moscato Wine?

Moscato wine is made from the Muscat grape, one of the oldest known grape varieties in the world. While there are many types of Muscat grapes, the most common used for Moscato wine is Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains.

Moscato is known for being:

• Light-bodied
• Sweet and low in alcohol (typically 5%–7%)
• Highly aromatic, with notes of peach, orange blossom, and apricot

It’s often slightly sparkling (frizzante), making it refreshing and perfect for casual sipping.

Where Does Moscato Wine Come From?

Moscato has its origins in Italy, particularly in the Piedmont region in the northwest. The most famous style is Moscato d’Asti, a lightly sparkling white wine produced under strict quality regulations.

But Moscato is now made in many wine regions around the world, including:

• California (USA)
• Australia
• France
• Spain
• South Africa

Each region gives its own twist to Moscato, ranging from traditional sparkling whites to still rosés and even red versions.

How Is Moscato Wine Made?

The winemaking process focuses on preserving the grape's natural sweetness and aromatic compounds.

Here’s a simplified overview:

1. Harvesting – Grapes are picked early to retain acidity and freshness.
2. Pressing – Grapes are gently pressed to extract juice.
3. Fermentation – The fermentation is stopped early, leaving residual sugar in the wine.
4. Filtration & Bottling – The wine is filtered and bottled, often with a bit of CO₂ to give it a light sparkle.

This process results in a sweet, low-alcohol wine that's ready to drink young—no aging required.

Popular Types of Moscato Wine

There’s more than one type of Moscato! Here are a few styles you’ll find:

Moscato d’Asti (Italy)

Slightly sparkling (frizzante), sweet, and aromatic. The original and still the most iconic.

Asti Spumante (Italy)

Fully sparkling version of Moscato d’Asti. More festive and higher in bubbles.

Pink Moscato

Blended with a small amount of red wine (like Merlot or Syrah), giving it a blush hue and notes of berries.

Red Moscato

Rare but growing in popularity. Made from darker-skinned Muscat varieties, with flavors like cherry, raspberry, and plum.

Still Moscato

No bubbles. Sweet and floral, but smooth and easy to drink.

Why Is Moscato So Popular?

Moscato wine became especially popular in the U.S. in the early 2010s, boosted by pop culture and hip-hop references. But its appeal goes beyond the hype:

• Sweetness: Easy-drinking and not too dry
• Low alcohol: Great for light sipping or daytime occasions
• Aromatic: Perfumed and fruity, even on the nose
• Affordable: Many quality bottles cost under $15
• Versatile: Works with desserts, brunch, spicy foods, or solo sipping

Food Pairings with Moscato Wine

Moscato’s sweetness and floral character make it great for pairing with:

• Spicy foods (Thai, Indian, Mexican)
• Cheeses (especially soft and salty varieties like brie or gorgonzola)
• Fresh fruits and fruit-based desserts
• Light brunch dishes like crepes or waffles
• Pastries and cheesecake

Pro tip: Moscato is one of the few wines that can handle heat and sweetness in food—great for fusion and takeout nights.

How to Serve Moscato Wine

• Best served chilled (around 45°F / 7°C)
• Use a white wine glass to concentrate the aromas
• Store in the fridge and consume within a few days after opening
• Moscato doesn't age well—drink it young and fresh

Is Moscato Wine Right for You?

If you like wines that are sweet, aromatic, and low in alcohol, Moscato wine is absolutely worth trying. It’s ideal for:

• New wine drinkers
• Light drinkers
• Brunch lovers
• Dessert fans
• Anyone looking for a crowd-pleaser at gatherings

Moscato is also a great introduction to the world of wine, offering complexity without overwhelming the palate.

Final Thoughts

Moscato wine is more than just a sweet drink—it’s a global favorite with deep roots, delightful flavors, and endless versatility. Whether you’re pairing it with a meal, enjoying it on a sunny afternoon, or introducing a friend to wine for the first time, Moscato is always a welcome choice.