Asti DOCG

Moscato d Asti: A Sweet Symphony for the Senses

Asti DOCG is renowned worldwide for its light, low-alcohol sparkling, and semi-sparkling white wines made from the Moscato Bianco grape, including the beloved Moscato d Asti. These wines, cultivated in Piedmont around the town of Asti, have gained a loyal following globally and hold a significant cultural significance among local consumers. The Moscato d Asti wine, with its enchanting aromas and delightful sweetness, has become a true ambassador of Asti DOCG, captivating wine lovers around the world.

The term "Moscato" derives from the Latin word "muscum," meaning perfumed, highlighting the aromatic nature of this grape variety.

Moscato is one of the oldest grapes cultivated in Italy, with a history dating back to ancient Greek and Roman times. Greek colonists first introduced it to Italy, and later, the Romans spread its cultivation across Europe. The cultivation of Moscato in Piedmont can be traced back to as early as 1300, as documented in written records.

In the 15th century, Giovan Battista Croce, a jeweler from Milan, settled in Piedmont and began experimenting with the production of sweet wines in his vineyard. He is credited with inventing the production method for Moscato d'Asti, a legacy that endures to this day.

In the modern era, Moscato continued to gain popularity, leading to the establishment of the Consortium for the Protection of Asti in 1932. This consortium aims to safeguard and promote the product on a global scale. The DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) classification, the highest level in the Italian wine classification system, further reinforces the reputation and quality of Moscato d Asti wines.

Asti spumante wine's initial reputation was largely built upon the festive nature of the wine. Asti Spumante, with its low alcohol content, residual sugar, and delicate bubbles, became immensely popular. Asti sparkling wine typically contains approximately 100-120 calories per serving.

The gentle sweetness of Asti's white wines played a significant role in their success in export markets worldwide. In 1993, the wine was officially granted DOCG status, recognizing its quality and provenance.

The designation Asti DOCG comprises three sub-zones: Canelli, Santa Vittoria d'Alba, and Strevi.

The winemakers in Strevi have chosen to assert their independence and have separated from the appellation, forming the Strevi DOC in 2005. While Strevi wine is still produced from Moscato Bianco, from a labeling perspective, Canelli is now the primary sub-zone to consider when selecting a bottle of Moscato d'Asti. Santa Vittoria d'Alba is also known for its late harvest, or Vendemmia Tardiva, styles.

The Asti DOCG encompasses four wine typologies: Asti Spumante, Asti Spumante Metodo Classico, Moscato d Asti, and Moscato d Asti Vendemmia Tardiva. 

Asti Wine: Discover the Essence of Sparkling Elegance

Asti Spumante DOCG is a sparkling wine produced using the Charmat Method and falls under the Asti DOCG denomination. Thanks to its distinct and highly enjoyable primary aromas, as well as its characteristic freshness, Asti wine has become a reference point in the world of food and wine. In fact, it is one of the most widely exported Italian wines.

Asti Moscato Wine is also produced in the Classic Method version, following the traditional sparkling process of fermenting the wine directly in the bottle. When it comes to tasting, Asti Spumante Metodo Classico differs from Asti Spumante DOCG in terms of its greater structure, finer and more persistent bubbles, and a more pronounced hint of yeast. This makes it suitable for pairing with meals as well.

The color of Asti Spumante ranges from straw yellow to a slightly intense golden yellow. Its scent is delicate, and characterized by a distinct aromatic quality. Floral notes reminiscent of acacia flowers and fruity notes of citrus fruits, pear, and melon emerge.

The taste is sweet, balanced, and fresh, with pleasant aromatic undertones. In the Classic Method version, there may be an aromatic aftertaste.

Classic Moscato di Asti wine is known for its remarkable aroma, with floral notes complemented by hints of peach, apricot, and fresh grape juice.

Although it stands in stark contrast to Piedmont's other iconic wine style, the robust and red Barolo Wine, Moscato d'Asti remains one of Italy's most famous and popular wines, and a beloved choice among Piedmont wines.

Some of the best Moscato d Asti producers include Massolino, Castello del Poggio, Michele Chiarlo, Villa Rinaldi, and Paolo Saracco.

The Moscato Bianco (Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains) grape variety has found its home in Piedmont for centuries. This variety has been officially documented as early as the 13th century in the statutes of the town of Canelli. The Moscato Bianco variety is also known by its local synonym "Moscato di Canelli".

Canelli continues to play a significant role in the world of Moscato today. Situated at the heart of the Moscato d'Asti production area, it is an officially recognized sub-zone for the production of Moscato d'Asti wines. Wines labeled as "Canelli" must be made from 100 percent Moscato Bianco grapes. The town is also home to several noteworthy wineries.

Moscato is widely cultivated around the Mediterranean region, giving rise to both dry and sweet wines. It is renowned for its intense, fresh, floral, and grapey aromas. While it is rarely associated with producing "serious" wines, it is often celebrated for its role in creating lighter-hearted, indulgent styles, of which Moscato di Asti is a prime example.

The Moscato d Asti wine production zone is located in the hills just south of the town of Asti. It spans approximately 50 kilometers from east to west and encompasses around 50 municipalities across the provinces of Cuneo, Asti, and Alessandria.

Moscato d'Asti Vendemmia Tardiva, as the name suggests, involves a harvest that occurs later than usual, allowing the grapes to achieve the ideal sugar concentration. Subsequently, the wine undergoes a minimum aging period of one year.

Moscato d Asti Vendemmia Tardiva is a sweet and aromatic wine that captivates palates worldwide. Crafted from Moscato Bianco grapes grown in the hills of Piedmont, this wine is the result of a late harvest, allowing the grapes to fully mature and develop concentrated flavors and natural sweetness.

The Moscato d Asti Vendemmia Tardiva showcases a vibrant golden hue and releases intense aromas of ripe peaches, apricots, and orange blossoms. On the palate, this Asti wine delights with its luscious sweetness, complemented by a refreshing acidity that keeps it vibrant and enjoyable. This delightful dessert wine is the perfect accompaniment to fruit-based desserts, and pastries, or can be savored on its own as a delightful indulgence. 

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