In his book Grapes and Wines Oz Clarke rightly laments “the Muscat grape is treated with casual disregard by the majority of wine drinkers”. How so, when Muscat (aka Moscatel) is as old as wine itself, and so versatile it makes outstanding wines that can be sweet, dry, sparkling or fortified? Those in the know love Muscat for its exotic perfume and for the fact that it is perhaps the only wine that actually tastes of fresh grapes.
So without further ado get stuck into a glass of this Moscatel Rosado, unearthed by our award-winning Buyer for Spain. This modern, fruity, medium-dry, semi-sparkling rosé from sunny Valencian vineyards is addictively moreish. Savour well chilled – on its own or with grilled prawns or summer berries.
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Even if you think you’re not a fan of a medium-sweet style of fizz, this is one you must try. It’s full of refreshing bubbly charm with classic Moscato hints of rose petal and grape that makes your mouth water.
It’s a terrific glassful on its own, anytime of the day, perfect with a slice of cake (Madeira or lemon and almond perhaps) or fruity pudding. Moscato is of course the same as France’s Muscat, one of the most aromatic varieties in the world, only challenged to that title by Gewurztraminer! Asti is the finest area of Italy’s Piedmont for the style and we think this is the best we’ve tasted. It’ll bring thoughts of spring to mind whatever the time of year. Embrace the sweetness and freshness – this fizz is a delight. Chill well.
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When Belgian entrepreneurs, Christopher and Christel, moved to Barcelona over a decade ago, they had one simple dream: to grow, harvest and bottle the best organic cava in the world! Together, with winemaker Joan Soler, they select grape growers whose vineyards are high up in the mountains, close to they winery. They must also practise natural, organic methods, minimising the need for sulphites, and allowing for a pure expression of Spain’s Catalunya region.
This Cava Brut is made using the classic method for sparkling wines and the region’s local grapes – Macabeo, Parellada and Xarel-lo – and ageing on lees for 12 months. An abundance of bright Granny Smith apple, citrus and floral flavours make it a refreshing fizz for any occasion.
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