Moscato wines are sweet Italian wines with fruity notes and low alcohol content. Their name originates from the Italian word “Moscato” or Muscat, the oldest grape variety from which the wine is made. To date, there are about 200 varieties of Muscat grapes grown all over the world that allow vintners to create different flavors and styles.
Because we love to celebrate life, and a bottle of wine makes any moment special, here is a helpful guide to help you find the best Moscato wine for your next occasion. We have also curated a list of the top 10 best Moscato wines that you can buy online in the Philippines and some insights from wine professional, Raymund S. Manzanillo!
Quick List - Top Moscato Wines
Raymund is currently the chief sommelier who sources and evaluates wines for the portfolio of La Peregrina Filipina, a Philippine-based wine import company. He is a proponent of wine as culture, art, a lifestyle, and an all-important element in the world of gastronomy.
Justine joined mybest in 2020. She gravitates toward writing all things food-related and how they connect people. Aside from writing, she’s made it a point to hunt for the perfect croissant and chocolate chip cookie.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
Moscato wine differs from the usual red and white wines in several ways. Below, wine professional Raymund S. Manzanillo gives us a rundown on what makes moscato wines different.
Grape Variety: Moscato wine is primarily made from the Muscat grape, also known as Moscato in Italy. This grape has a distinct aromatic profile with floral and fruity characteristics, setting it apart from the grape varieties used in red and white wines.
Sweetness: Moscato wines are known for their sweetness. They often have residual sugar, which means that not all of the grape's natural sugars are fermented into alcohol. This results in a sweeter taste compared to many red and white wines, which are typically dry or off-dry.
Aroma and Flavor: Moscato wines are highly aromatic, with intense floral and fruit aromas. They can have notes of peach, apricot, orange blossom, and tropical fruits. In contrast, red and white wines may exhibit a wider range of flavors, depending on the grape varieties used and the winemaking techniques employed.
Alcohol Content: Moscato wines generally have a lower alcohol by volume (ABV) compared to many red and white wines. They typically range from 5% to 8% ABV, while red and white wines often fall within the range of 12% to 14% ABV or higher.
Effervescence: Moscato wines often have a slight sparkling or semi-sparkling quality, contributing to their light and refreshing character. This is different from most red and white wines, which are typically still (non-sparkling).
Known for their pronounced floral and fruity aromas, Moscato wines offer a refreshing and easy-drinking experience. In this guide, we’ll go over the different types of Moscato wines, explore their unique characteristics, and guide you on how to select the perfect bottle.
Moscato wines have different varieties. They can be classified as pink, red, and white. Wine professional Raymund Manzanillo mentions that ultimately, the choice between white, pink, or red Moscato comes down to personal preference. Each variation offers a slightly different taste experience, so you may want to try all three to determine which one you enjoy the most.
Pink moscato is a variation of moscato wine with a pink or light rosé color. It is typically made from the same Muscat grape but may sometimes include a blend of other grape varieties to achieve the desired color and flavor profile.
It’s considered easy to drink because of its light-body and sweet and fruity flavors like strawberry and raspberry. Additionally, its lower alcohol content and light, refreshing qualities make it approachable for those who are new to wine or prefer sweeter beverages. It can also be a good option for social gatherings, casual sipping, or pairing with desserts.
This one is made from red-skinned muscat grapes, which give it a deeper red color. It often has a richer, fruitier flavor profile with hints of berries and a slightly more robust body compared to white Moscato, which more seasoned wine drinkers can enjoy. Moscato rosa, which could be red or pink Moscato, has intense floral and berry aromas.
It is typically the most common and traditional style, with its pale yellow color and crisp, fruity flavors. It tends to have a lighter body and a more pronounced floral aroma. White moscato wines include moscato Giallo, which is medium-sweet or off-dry with a deeper golden color and flavors of ripe stone fruits and honey.
You can also find moscato d'Asti, known for its sweet taste, low-alcohol, and slightly sparkling with floral and fruity aromas. Additionally, asti spumante is sweeter and more effervescent with pronounced floral and tropical fruit flavors.
It's important to note that moscato wines can also be made in dry or off-dry styles. The sweetness level also depends on the winemaking process, residual sugar content, and the winemaker's intention.
Moscato wines typically have a lower alcohol by volume (ABV) compared to many other wines. While the exact ABV can vary depending on the producer and style, Moscato wines generally fall in the range of 5% to 8% ABV.
This lower alcohol content contributes to their light and refreshing character and makes them a popular choice for those who prefer wines with lower alcohol content.
Starting with wines in this ABV range allows new wine drinkers to explore a wide variety of styles and flavors without being overwhelmed by the alcohol. However, it's important to remember that personal preferences and tolerance can vary, so feel free to experiment and find what works best for you.
When it comes to purchasing moscato wines on a budget, you can generally find good options at a range of prices. The exact price point may vary based on your location, but as a general guideline, you can consider the following:
Moreover, the decision to buy expensive Moscato wines depends on your preferences and budget. Expensive doesn't guarantee a better experience. There are enjoyable Moscato wines at various price points. It's worth exploring different options to find what suits your taste.
However, there are many specialty wine shops around Metro Manila wherein you would be able to find some traditional styles of Moscato to experience quality and traditionally made styles that are set apart from the supermarket varieties.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Country of Origin | Region | Grape Variety | Body | Vintage | ABV | |||||
1 | Pelissero Moscato d’Asti DOCG | ![]() | A Wine That Offers the Right Balance of Sweetness and Acidity | Italy | Piedmont | Moscato | Light | 2021 | 5.5% | |
2 | Massolino Moscato D’ Asti | ![]() | Has a Bright Aroma and a Subtle Fizz That Will Delight Your Palate | Italy | Serralunga D' Alba | Moscato | Light to Medium | 2021 | 5% | |
3 | Gancia Asti Spumante | ![]() | The Perfect Companion for Lightly Sweet Desserts | Italy | Piedmont | Moscato Bianco | Light to Medium | No Vintage | 7.5% | |
4 | Sutter Home Pink Moscato | ![]() | Features a Blend of Fruity Flavors in Every Sip | USA | California | Muscat | Light to Medium | No Vintage | 10% | |
5 | Batasilo Moscato Spumante | ![]() | Has a Lingering Fizz for the Perfect Accompaniment to Desserts | Italy | Not Indicated | Moscato | Not Indicated | Not Indicated | 6.5% | |
6 | Yellowtail Pink Moscato | ![]() | Please Your Eyes and Palate With a Sparkling Pink | Australia | Southern Australia | Moscato | Light | No Vintage | 13% | |
7 | Gallo Family Vineyard Moscato NV | ![]() | A Refreshing and Light-Bodied Wine That's Perfect for Summer | USA | California | Muscat | Light to Medium | No Vintage | 9% | |
8 | Stella Rossa Moscato | ![]() | Effortlessly Elevate Every Occasion With This Versatile Wine | USA | California | Moscato | Not Indicated | Not Indicated | 5% | |
9 | Barefoot Red Moscato | ![]() | A Sweeter and More Affordable Option | USA | California | Muscat | Light to Medium | No Vintage | 9% | |
10 | Carlo Rossi Pink Moscato | ![]() | An Budget-Friendly Option That's Bursting With Sweetness | USA | California | Muscat | Light | No Vintage | 9% |
Country of Origin | Italy |
---|---|
Region | Piedmont |
Grape Variety | Moscato |
Body | Light |
Vintage | 2021 |
ABV | 5.5% |
Country of Origin | Italy |
---|---|
Region | Serralunga D' Alba |
Grape Variety | Moscato |
Body | Light to Medium |
Vintage | 2021 |
ABV | 5% |
Country of Origin | Italy |
---|---|
Region | Piedmont |
Grape Variety | Moscato Bianco |
Body | Light to Medium |
Vintage | No Vintage |
ABV | 7.5% |
Country of Origin | USA |
---|---|
Region | California |
Grape Variety | Muscat |
Body | Light to Medium |
Vintage | No Vintage |
ABV | 10% |
Additionally, the inviting aromas of moscato grapes, apples, and white flowers produces a balanced sweetness and freshness, ensuring a pleasant taste. This makes it the perfect partner for fruit salads, cakes, pastries, and a whole range of desserts!
Country of Origin | Italy |
---|---|
Region | Not Indicated |
Grape Variety | Moscato |
Body | Not Indicated |
Vintage | Not Indicated |
ABV | 6.5% |
You can never go wrong with Yellowtail if you are looking for wines that are great-tasting but modestly priced. Their Pink Moscato is just as tantalizing as the summer skies at sunset as it sparkles in your flute. The flavor bursts with a delightful medley of fruits, from apples to pears to berries, and citrusy notes.
This wine goes down smoothly with an enticing fizz that lingers and distributes flavor all over the palate. It pairs well with light sandwiches, pasta dishes, pastries, and cakes. And with its low alcohol content, it is the perfect bottle to serve on a laid-back afternoon drinking session!
Country of Origin | Australia |
---|---|
Region | Southern Australia |
Grape Variety | Moscato |
Body | Light |
Vintage | No Vintage |
ABV | 13% |
Country of Origin | USA |
---|---|
Region | California |
Grape Variety | Muscat |
Body | Light to Medium |
Vintage | No Vintage |
ABV | 9% |
Country of Origin | USA |
---|---|
Region | California |
Grape Variety | Moscato |
Body | Not Indicated |
Vintage | Not Indicated |
ABV | 5% |
If you have a penchant for red wines but prefer sweeter and slightly sparkling versions, then a red Moscato is the wine for you. This wine will add more fun to the table with its vibrant red hue, enchanting fizz, and a flavor profile with hints of berries and citrusy notes.
What is great about Barefoot Red Moscato other than its lovely taste and aroma is the price. You elevate any dinner setting without going over your budget. Plus, you get great value for your money because it pairs well with spicy food, curries, barbecued meats, and grilled seafood, as well as fresh fruits and soft cheeses.
Country of Origin | USA |
---|---|
Region | California |
Grape Variety | Muscat |
Body | Light to Medium |
Vintage | No Vintage |
ABV | 9% |
Country of Origin | USA |
---|---|
Region | California |
Grape Variety | Muscat |
Body | Light |
Vintage | No Vintage |
ABV | 9% |
Here are some popular pairing suggestions for Moscato wine:
Fruits and desserts: Moscato's sweetness complements fresh fruits such as peaches, strawberries, and melons. It also pairs well with desserts like fruit tarts, fruit salads, light cakes, and pastries.
Cheese: Moscato pairs nicely with mild and creamy cheeses such as Brie, Camembert, and fresh goat cheese. The sweetness of the wine balances the richness of the cheese.
Spicy foods: Moscato's sweetness can help offset the heat of spicy cuisines like Thai, Indian, or Mexican dishes. It can provide a refreshing contrast to the spiciness.
Asian cuisine: Moscato can be a good match for various Asian dishes, including sushi, spring rolls, and Thai curries. Its fruity flavors complement the aromatic and spicy elements of Asian cuisine.
Light fare: Moscato is versatile and can be enjoyed on its own as an aperitif or paired with light appetizers like bruschetta, salads, or seafood dishes. Moscato wine is known for its sweet, fruity, and often slightly sparkling characteristics.
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by wine professional Raymund S. Manzanillo.
The perception of whether Moscato is more elevated or not compared to typical wines is subjective and can vary among individuals. Moscato wine is often associated with a sweeter flavor profile and a lighter, refreshing character. It is popular for its aromatic qualities and is enjoyed by many wine enthusiasts.
However, in the traditional wine hierarchy, Moscato is not typically considered as "elevated" as certain other wines like fine red Bordeaux or Burgundy. These wines are often associated with more complex flavors, aging potential, and higher price points. Nevertheless, wine appreciation is highly personal, and if you enjoy the flavors and characteristics of Moscato, then it can certainly be a delightful and enjoyable choice for you.
When evaluating the quality of Moscato wine, there are several indicators to consider. Here are some key factors to look for:
1. Aroma: A good-quality Moscato wine will have a pronounced and appealing aroma. It should exhibit intense and characteristic floral notes, along with fruity aromas that are specific to the Moscato grape variety, such as peach, apricot, orange blossom, or citrus.
2. Balance: Balance is crucial in a well-made Moscato wine. The sweetness, acidity, and alcohol levels should be harmoniously integrated. The wine should not be overly cloying or excessively acidic. Instead, there should be a pleasant equilibrium between these elements.
3. Complexity: High-quality Moscato wines often exhibit complexity in their flavor profile. Look for layers of flavors beyond just sweetness, such as subtle herbal or spicy notes that add depth and interest to the wine.
4. Structure: A good Moscato wine should have a well-defined structure. This includes a good mouthfeel with appropriate body and texture. The wine should have a sufficient level of acidity to provide freshness and balance the sweetness.
5. Length of finish: Pay attention to the length of the wine's finish, which refers to how long the flavors linger in your mouth after each sip. A good-quality Moscato wine will have a satisfying and persistent finish.
6. Producer reputation: Consider the reputation of the producer or winery. Researching reviews, ratings, and awards can give you an idea of the quality and consistency of their wines.
It's important to note that these indicators are general guidelines, and personal preferences can play a significant role in determining what constitutes a "good" Moscato wine for you. Exploring different Moscato wines from various producers and regions can help you identify the characteristics and qualities you enjoy most.
If you are looking for the highest quality of wines for specific categories, look no further. Check out the links below and see our other lists of the best wines available in the market!
30 Best Wines in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Sommelier
10 Best White Wines in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Sommelier
10 Best Rosé Wines in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Sommelier
8 Best Local Wines in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Sommelier
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: Pelissero|Moscato d’Asti DOCG
No. 2: Massolino|Moscato D’ Asti
No. 3: Gancia|Asti Spumante
No. 4: Sutter Home|Pink Moscato
No. 5: Batasilo|Moscato Spumante
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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