Most think of Moscato d’Asti as a sparkling wine that’s a joy to sip whenever and wherever. It’s true. The wines of Moscato d’Asti have just enough sweetness to refresh the palate, a lower alcohol content to enjoy any time of the day (or night), and mesmerizing aromas to make each moment special. It’s no wonder that Moscato d’Asti is the most widely consumed wine in the world. While visiting the region several months ago I delved into the styles of Moscato d’Asti, learned more about its unique characteristics and met winemakers who are proud of their wines and region. During and after the visit, I embraced a renewed appreciation for the Moscato Bianco variety and the historic land from which it’s cultivated.
To reinforce my admiration for all things Moscato d’Asti, I recently participated in a virtual tasting of the wines (sent to me as samples) during which producers shared their thoughts about and insights into this intriguing region of northern Italy. (For more about Moscato d’Asti located in Piemonte, explore the website of the Consorzio here.)
Moscato Bianco grapes cultivated in Moscato d’Asti DOCG undergo partial fermentation in pressurized tanks. Fermentation stops when an alcohol content of 5% abv is reached and much of the grape’s natural sugars remain. Slightly sparkling (frizzante), aromas and gently sweet flavors of white and yellow flowers, stone fruit such as apricot and peach, orange and sage characterize this elegant wine. (Learn more here.)
Moscato d’Asti and an Autumn Menu
One of the many highlights during the virtual tasting included suggestions for pairing Moscato d’Asti with food. Usually, I complement lighter foods such as breezy appetizers, fresh sushi, a garden salad or fruit dessert with Moscato d’Asti. But now that autumn is upon us, I invite you to join me in a curious adventure…. What dishes usually associated with this cooler season might be even more delicious with a glass of sparkling Moscato d’Asti? Spoiler Alert: In my exploration, I discovered that successful sweet and savory pairings related to the components of the sauces and nature of the herbs and spices in the dish.
Relish every taste of rich and creamy blue cheeses, foie gras, charcuterie and crusty breads with sips of Coppo Moncalvina Moscato d’Asti 2019 “Canelli.” Of Moscato Bianco grapes cultivated in Canelli, a prestigious sub-zone of Moscato d’Asti DOCG, I noted aromas of bright florals, honeysuckle, peaches and pears and flavors of fresh, sweet notes of stone fruit, flowers, sage, mint and minerality. Luigi Coppo, fourth generation member of the family, explained that he’s “looking for the right acidity to balance the sweetness.” This wine may be considered one for desserts, but it’s exceptional with savory foods, too.
Ahhh, bites of vegetable tempura and sips of La Caudrina Moscato d’Asti from Romano Dogliotti were unexpectedly superb. Light and refreshing with mouthwatering acidity and notes of mint, marzipan, juicy peaches, apricots, lime and a drizzle of honey on both the nose and palate were brilliant counterpoints to the crunchy texture and snappy tastes of the vegetable tempura. Ever so balanced with low alcohol, enough residual sugar and bright acidity, the medium bodied wine was a joy to sip.
A staple on many autumn menus is a tender cut of steak cooked to perfection with a sweet plum sauce on the side. Instead of a bold Cabernet, how about surprising your palate with a pour of Marenco Vini Scrapona Moscato D’Asti DOCG 2019? From a single vineyard, the wine offered an elegant mousse, aromas and flavors of rich tropical fruit, sage, orange blossoms and ripe peaches and a full, round mouthfeel. Each slightly sweet sip of wine complemented the flavorful sauce and juicy steak.
What would a cool autumn night be without a luscious plate of white sauce lasagna and glass of Moscato d’Asti DOCG 2019 Vignaioli di Santo Stefano? Also known as the “rocket ship wine” due to its elongated bottle shape, this Moscato burst with notes of sage, lychee and acacia flowers, all lifted with vibrant acidity. Before baking, add dashes of sweet cinnamon to the white sauce in the lasagna and save the Pinot Grigio or Sangiovese for another night. You won’t believe the deliciousness of this pairing… but once you do, you’ll return for another helping!
A lush finale to an autumn menu is lemon ricotta cannoli with pistachios and pine nuts and sips of Moscato d’Asti DOCG 2019 Nivole Michele Chiarlo. Floral, ripe peaches and dried apricot aromas led to bright, fresh flavors of tropical fruit, sage, nectarines and musk. Minerality reigned and the wine’s creamy mouthfeel and dancing bubbles in the glass were magnificent.
Cheers! ~ Cindy
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