Moscato Wine: Sweet, Effervescent, and Seriously Underrated

By Everything Wine
Jun 27, 2025

Moscato Wine: Sweet, Effervescent, and Seriously Underrated

If you’ve ever raised a glass of lightly fizzy, floral white wine that felt like summer in a bottle, chances are, you were sipping Moscato. Known for its light body, aromatic profile, and signature sweetness, Moscato is a wine that’s easy to love - whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a casual sipper looking for something approachable and refreshing.

Originating from the Muscat grape, one of the oldest cultivated grape varieties in the world, Moscato has deep roots in winemaking history. While it’s famously produced in Italy, particularly in the Piedmont region under the name Moscato d’Asti, this grape is grown globally, with excellent expressions coming from California, Australia, and even right here in BC. Depending on where and how it’s made, Moscato can be still, semi-sparkling, fully sparkling, or even crafted into luscious dessert wines.

What sets Moscato apart is its unmistakable aromatic quality. With notes of ripe peach, apricot, orange blossom, honey, and a splash of citrus, it’s like capturing the essence of summer in a glass. Despite its sweetness, Moscato rarely feels heavy. Its natural acidity balances the sugar, giving it a clean, refreshing finish. Another standout feature is its lower alcohol content, typically around 5% to 7%, which makes it a relaxed, easy-drinking choice, perfect for afternoons on the patio or casual get-togethers.

While many associate Moscato with sweet, sparkling whites, the Muscat grape is quite adaptable. Dry styles showcase its floral elegance without the sugar, while rosé versions add a playful touch of red berry fruit. And for those who enjoy dessert wines, fortified Moscato is rich and honeyed with incredible depth.

Part of Moscato’s widespread appeal lies in its versatility. It pairs beautifully with spicy dishes, balancing the heat of cuisines like Thai, Indian, or Mexican. It’s also a natural match for fruity desserts, soft cheeses, or simply enjoyed on its own, well chilled. Whether you're hosting a brunch, planning a picnic, or just relaxing after a long day, Moscato fits the moment perfectly.

We love that Moscato remains refreshingly itself - bright, floral, and unapologetically fun. It's proof that wine doesn't need to be complicated to be enjoyable. So next time you’re browsing the aisles or looking for something new to try, don’t overlook Moscato. It might just be the easygoing, delicious sip you didn’t know you were missing.