Raise a glass in celebration of National Moscato Day on May 9, savoring the sweetness of your favorite wine! Since the mid-2000s, this day has been dedicated to honoring the delightful and fruity qualities of Moscato. Originating in Italy over 500 years ago, Moscato has become a global favorite, appreciated for its distinct taste and aroma. Cheers to the rich history and deliciousness of this beloved wine!

Origin of National Moscato Day

National Moscato Day was founded by Gallo Family Vineyards in 2012 to bring attention to the growing popularity of Moscato wine in the United States. Since then, the day has gained recognition as an opportunity to celebrate one of the most beloved wine varieties. Moscato sales have skyrocketed over the past decade, and this day allows wine lovers to come together and appreciate its charm.

What is Moscato?

Moscato (also known as Muscat) is a wine made from the Muscat grape variety, which is known for producing sweet, aromatic wines with a relatively low alcohol content. This variety is one of the oldest known grape varieties, with a history that dates back thousands of years to ancient Greece and Rome.

Moscato wines are typically enjoyed young and fresh, and they are most commonly produced in Italy. The most famous type of Moscato is Moscato d'Asti, which comes from the Asti region of Piedmont, Italy. It is a lightly sparkling wine (frizzante) with low alcohol levels and a sweet, fruity taste.

Flavor Profile

Moscato wines are known for their light, refreshing sweetness and distinct floral and fruity notes. The typical tasting notes include:

• Floral aromas: Orange blossom, honeysuckle, and jasmine
• Fruit flavors: Peach, apricot, pear, and nectarine
• Citrus notes: Lemon and lime
• Tropical hints: Pineapple and passion fruit
• Sweetness: Moscato is often slightly effervescent (sparkling), adding to its refreshing character.

How to Celebrate National Moscato Day

There are many fun and delicious ways to celebrate National Moscato Day:

1. Enjoy a Glass of Moscato: The simplest way to celebrate is by pouring yourself a chilled glass of Moscato. Whether you prefer a still, sparkling, or semi-sparkling version, this wine is perfect for sipping on its own or pairing with food.

2. Pair Moscato with Food: Moscato’s sweetness and acidity make it a versatile wine to pair with food. Some excellent pairings include:

   • Desserts: Fruit tarts, light cakes, and biscotti
   • Cheese: Soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert, or fresh cheeses like ricotta
   • Spicy dishes: Moscato’s sweetness can balance spicy foods, making it an excellent companion for Thai or Indian cuisine.
   • Fruits and nuts: Fresh fruit, especially peaches or apricots, as well as almonds or pistachios, complement Moscato beautifully.

3. Host a Moscato Tasting Party: Invite friends or family over for a Moscato tasting. Offer a variety of Moscato wines, including Moscato d'Asti, Pink Moscato, and Sparkling Moscato, to let everyone experience the different styles and flavors.

4. Learn About Moscato Wine: Use National Moscato Day as an opportunity to dive into the history and production of Moscato. Explore its Italian origins, its grape-growing regions, and its rise in popularity.

5. Cook with Moscato: Moscato can be a great addition to recipes, particularly desserts. Try using Moscato in a fruit compote, as a glaze for grilled peaches, or even in baking to infuse its delicate sweetness into a dish.

6. Share on Social Media: Join the Moscato Day celebration online by sharing your Moscato experiences on social media. Use the hashtag #NationalMoscatoDay to post pictures of your wine glass, Moscato pairings, or any creative ways you’re enjoying the day.

Types of Moscato

Moscato comes in various forms, each with its own unique characteristics:

• Moscato d'Asti: A lightly sparkling (frizzante) wine from Piedmont, Italy, known for its low alcohol content (usually around 5-6%) and its sweet, fruity flavor.
• Pink Moscato: A rosé-style Moscato with a pink hue, often featuring red fruit notes such as strawberry or raspberry.
• Sparkling Moscato: Fully sparkling Moscato, similar to champagne, but with a sweeter and fruitier profile.
• Still Moscato: Non-sparkling Moscato, often with a higher sweetness level and a more pronounced fruity flavor.

Fun Facts About Moscato

• Historical Significance: Muscat grapes have been used for thousands of years to produce sweet wines. They were enjoyed by royalty and were often associated with celebrations in ancient times.
• Rapid Growth: Moscato saw an explosion in popularity in the early 2010s, particularly in the U.S. The wine’s sweet and approachable taste made it a favorite among millennials and new wine drinkers.
• Low Alcohol: Moscato wines are known for their low alcohol content, which usually ranges between 5-8%, making them a great choice for casual sipping or for those who prefer lighter beverages.

Conclusion

National Moscato Day is the perfect time to celebrate this sweet, aromatic wine that has captured the hearts of many wine lovers. Whether you’re sipping Moscato on its own, pairing it with your favorite dish, or exploring different varieties, this day is all about enjoying the refreshing and delightful flavors of this unique wine. So raise a glass on May 9 and toast to the light, fruity, and bubbly spirit of Moscato!