The Moscato d’Asti is one of the most famous Italian white wines. It has a Denominazione di origine controllata e garantita and is produced mainly in the province of Asti, in the northwest of the transalpine country and in smaller quantities in the neighboring provinces of Alessandria and Cuneo.
A sweet wine with low alcohol contents, the Moscato d’Asti is a national pride, a great accompaniment for desserts but also surprisingly good with cream cheese. Its bubbles are soft, not aggressive, and its sweetness is delicate. This wine is made with the moscato bianco grape (muscat). Read more here about gastronomy.
Following are three Moscato D’Asti that will please you for their quality, balance and elegance. Don’t forget to chill it well before serving it.
Ceretto 2012
WINERY: Ceretto // TYPE OF GRAPE: 100% moscato bianco // D.O.C.G.: Moscato d’Asti
In the beautiful village of Santo Stefano Belbo, in northwest Italy, is the Ceretto family winery, where this excellent sparkling wine is produced. Straw yellow in color, it has intensely fruity and fresh aromas with a nice persistency. The sweet taste is perfectly balanced with hints of peach and apricot. It has an excellent acidity and a lingering finish, being cooler than sweet. It is perfect to accompany a panna cotta or some delicious white chocolate pralines. The Ceretto 2012 is considered by critics as one of the best Moscato d’Asti in the market. In fact it is included in the prestigious wine list of El Celler de Can Roca, the Spanish restaurant that ranks second among the world’s best.
Moncucco 2008
WINERY: Fontanafredda // TYPE OF GRAPE: 100% moscato bianco // D.O.C.G.: Moscato d’Asti
In the hills of the Langhe, in the heart of Piedmont, the Fontanafredda winery has been producing its prestigious wines since 1878. This superb Moscato d’Asti originates from a-vintage cuvée of moscato bianco grapes. Bright and light, it shows lovely golden tones with the classic straw yellow background. Closer to the nose its fruity aromas are immediately perceived: peach, lemon, orange, and hints of honey, lemon and sage. On the palate the taste is rich, full and fresh. The finish is persistent and extremely nice. It is a delicious complement for a good apple pie or a crisp chocolate ice cream.
Ca’ Bianca 2013
WINERY: Ca’ Bianca // TYPE OF GRAPE: 100% moscato bianco // D.O.C.G.: Moscato d’Asti
Ca ‘Bianca is one of the most prestigious wineries in Piedmont; it was founded in 1954 and produces some of the best Barolos, Barbera and Moscato d’Asti wines in the area. The Ca ‘Bianca 2013 wine is produced from moscato bianco grapes from vineyards located in the heart of the hills of Alice Bel Colle, in the Alto Monferrato in Alessandria, Piedmont. With a light gold color, the Ca ‘Bianca 2013 exhibits delicate and intense peach and citrus aromas. In the mouth its seductive flavors of citrus and pineapple are perceived. The finish is lingering, fruity and fresh with a subtle sweetness that does not invade the palate. It is ideal to accompany a strawberry or cherry pie, or an almond cake. ■
