Moscato Wine: Light, Sweet, and Perfect for Summer
Moscato wine has earned a reputation for being approachable, affordable, and undeniably fun. Known for its sweet flavor and low alcohol content, Moscato is a go-to wine for new drinkers, summer parties, brunches, and casual get-togethers.
Want to skip the research and just taste great Moscato?
Our Sweet Wine Club delivers top picks every month — including bottles like these.
But what exactly is Moscato wine — and when is the best time to serve it? Let’s uncork it.
What Is Moscato Wine?
Moscato (pronounced moe-SKA-toe) is a sweet, often slightly sparkling white wine made from the Muscat grape, one of the oldest grape varieties in the world. It’s known for:
Low alcohol (typically around 5–7%)
Floral aromas like orange blossom and honeysuckle
Bright fruit flavors such as peach, apricot, and citrus
Moscato come in several styles: still, sparkling (Moscato d’Asti), and even rosé or red versions. The most popular style in the U.S. is white, slightly sparkling Moscato — perfect for warm-weather sipping.
What Does Moscato Wine Taste Like?
Moscato wine is known for its:
Light body
Low acidity
Sweet, fruity flavor
Common tasting notes include:
Peach
Apricot
Mango
Meyer lemon
White flowers
Serve Moscato chilled, ideally around 45–50°F. It’s a favorite for brunches, desserts, and casual afternoon gatherings.
Moscato Styles Table
| Style | Origin | Flavor Notes | Best With |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moscato d’Asti | Italy | Peach, citrus, fizz | Fruit, brunch, desserts |
| Pink Moscato | California | Strawberry, candy, floral | Berries, summer BBQ |
| Red Moscato | U.S./Australia | Cherry, rose, black tea | Pork, berry sauces |
| Still Moscato | Spain/Austria | Floral, apricot, dry finish | Salads, spicy food |
| Dessert Moscato | France/Portugal | Caramel, raisin, syrupy | Cakes, blue cheese |
Top Moscato Wines to Try This Month
Saracco Moscato d’Asti (Italy)
Red Moscato by Barefoot (U.S.)
Elvio Tintero Pink Moscato (Italy)
Any bottle from our Sweet Wine Club
Best Food Pairings for Moscato
| Food | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Spicy Thai or Indian Curry | Sweetness balances heat and enhances spice complexity |
| Fresh Fruit Salad | Bright acidity and fruit flavors complement fresh fruit |
| Soft Cheeses (Brie, Goat) | Creamy texture pairs well with floral and fruity notes |
| Lemon Tart or Cheesecake | Sweet-tart balance enhances citrus and rich textures |
| BBQ Pork or Glazed Ham | Fruit-driven sweetness pairs beautifully with smoky-sweet meats |
Perfect for Gifting
Not everyone loves bold reds — Moscato is an easy-drinking gift option. It’s:
Recognizable
Low in alcohol
Versatile and crowd-friendly
Ready to stock up?
Join our Sweet Wine Club and enjoy handpicked bottles — including some of the best Moscato’s from around the world.
Final Thoughts
If you’re new to wine or love a refreshing, sweet glass, Moscato is a perfect fit. It’s low-ABV, beautifully aromatic, and versatile across meals.
MasterClass explores pairing Moscato with everything from spicy food to fruit desserts
