Looking for the perfect sweet white wine to gift someone special? Whether you're a seasoned wine lover or shopping for a beginner, Moscato wine is often the go-to choice. With its enchanting aroma, fruity flavor, and versatility, it's not just a bottle of wine—it's a celebration in itself.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about Moscato grape wine, from its origins and varieties to gift ideas, pairing tips, and popular Moscato wine brands worth gifting.
What Is Moscato Wine?
Moscato wine is a type of sweet white wine with lower alcohol content, made primarily from the Muscat grape, one of the oldest known grape varieties in the world. Known for its light body, floral aroma, and flavors of peach, orange blossom, and apricot, Moscato is incredibly approachable—ideal for both new and seasoned wine drinkers.
While most people associate Moscato with white wine, it also comes in pink and red varieties, all of which are known for their sweetness and lower alcohol content.
Why Does Moscato Wine Have Lower Alcohol?
Moscato wine typically has a lower alcohol content (5–7%) compared to other wines. This is primarily because Muscat grapes are harvested early when sugar levels are still moderate, and fermentation is stopped before all sugars convert to alcohol. This results in a sweet, fruity wine that’s light, refreshing, and perfect for casual sipping or daytime celebrations.
Origin of Moscato Wine
Originating from one of the oldest grape families in the world, the Muscat grape—used to produce Moscato wine—has roots that trace back to the sun-drenched vineyards of the Mediterranean.
Cultivated since the times of ancient Greece and Rome, this aromatic varietal was cherished not only for its naturally sweet, floral flavor but also for its versatility and ease of enjoyment. Over centuries, it has evolved into a globally beloved wine, yet it still carries the rich legacy of its classical heritage in every sip. This timeless appeal is what makes Moscato a truly meaningful gift choice today.
How to Choose a Good Moscato Grape Wine?
Not all Moscatos are created equal. Here’s what to keep in mind when picking the perfect bottle—whether for yourself or as a gift:
| Factor | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Sweetness Level | Most Moscatos are totally sweet, but some are semi-sweet or off-dry to taste. Check for wines with tasting notes like “peach,” “apricot,” or “honey” to gauge sweetness level. |
| Fizz Factor | You can choose between still, lightly sparkling like Moscato d’Asti, or fully sparkling like spumante. |
| Origin / Region | Italian Moscatos (especially from Asti, Piedmont) are considered premium; also explore Australian and Californian variants for something different. |
| Brand Credibility | Choose well-known and trusted Moscato wine brands like Bartenura, Emilio Vada, or Cantina Gabriele for consistent quality. |
Types of Moscato Wine
There’s more than one type of Moscato, and each has its own character:
| Type of Moscato Wine | Description |
|---|---|
| Moscato d’Asti (Italy) | This wine originates from the Asti region in Piedmont, Italy. It is a lightly sparkling, semi-sweet white wine. |
| Still Moscato | It is a non-sparkling version that is usually sweet and floral with low alcohol. |
| Pink Moscato | Made by blending Moscato with a small amount of red wine (like Merlot or Zinfandel); it has strawberry and raspberry notes. |
| Red Moscato | Deeper berry flavors with a rich red hue; still maintains the signature sweetness. |
| Sparkling Moscato (Spumante) | Fully sparkling version with a lively fizz, ideal for celebrations. |
Moscato Wine Pairings
Moscato is a universally loved wine gift due to its sweet and approachable nature. It pairs well with desserts, cheeses, and even spicy foods. Here are a few quick pairing ideas to elevate your gift:
| Food Type | Examples | Why It Works with Moscato |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Fruits | Peach, Melon | Matches the wine's fruity, aromatic notes |
| Soft Cheeses | Brie, Goat Cheese | Complements the wine’s creaminess and balances acidity |
| Spicy Dishes | Thai, Indian | Moscato’s sweetness balances the heat and spices |
| Light Desserts | Macarons, Shortbread | Enhances vanilla, citrus, and floral notes in the wine |
Top Moscato Wine Brands
Here are some top Moscato wine brands like Bartenura, Emilio Vada, Cantina Gabriele, Saracco, La Spinetta, Cupcake Vineyards, Castello del Poggio, Risata, Seven Daughters, Vietti, Michele Chiarlo, and Candoni—each beloved for their unique expressions of this sweet white wine.
Bartenura
Known worldwide for its iconic “Blue Bottle,” Bartenura delivers a lightly sparkling Moscato d’Asti that’s crisp and refreshing, with vibrant notes of wildflowers, pear, apricot, and honey. It’s a universally loved choice, perfect for gifting or celebratory toasts.
Category: White Wine, Moscato
Country: Italy
Tasting Notes: Wildflowers, Pear, Apricot, Honey
Food Pairing: Desserts, Light Appetizers
ABV: 5.0%
Average Price (USA): $15-$35
Emilio Vada
Emilio Vada brings a more refined and aromatic Italian Moscato experience, layered with peach, apricot, and delicate floral tones. It’s praised for its depth, elegance, and finesse—making it ideal for wine lovers who enjoy complexity in their glass.
Category: White Wine, Moscato
Country: Italy
Tasting Notes: Peach, Apricot, Floral
Food Pairing: Seafood, Soft Cheeses
ABV: 5.5%
Average Price (USA): $15-$20
Cantina Gabriele
Cantina Gabriele offers a lighter, sweeter take on Moscato, ideal for casual sipping or pairing with snacks and light cheese. With their distinct profiles, these Moscato wine brands cater to a variety of palates and occasions, making them excellent additions to any gift basket or personal collection.
Category: White Wine, Moscato
Country: Italy
Tasting Notes: Sweet Fruit, Light Citrus
Food Pairing: Snacks, Light Cheese
ABV: 6.0%
Average Price (USA): $12-$35
Saracco Moscato d’Asti
A classic expression from Piedmont, Italy, this Moscato is lightly effervescent and intensely aromatic, with notes of peach, elderflower, and tropical fruit. It’s balanced and elegant, perfect for dessert pairings or brunch.
Category: White Wine, Moscato
Country: Italy
Tasting Notes: Peach, Elderflower, Tropical Fruit
Food Pairing: Desserts, Brunch Dishes
ABV: 5.5%
Average Price (USA): $15-$18
La Spinetta “Bricco Quaglia” Moscato d’Asti
Known for its crisp minerality and fine bubbles, La Spinetta’s offering stands out with notes of orange blossom, sage, and ripe peach. A sophisticated bottle for those seeking finesse.
Category: White Wine, Moscato
Country: Italy
Tasting Notes: Orange Blossom, Sage, Peach
Food Pairing: Light Pastries, Fruit Desserts
ABV: 4.5%
Average Price (USA): $20-$25
Cupcake Vineyards Moscato
A California favorite, Cupcake’s Moscato is bright, sweet, and floral with hints of honeysuckle and creamy citrus. Great for summer picnics, sweet dishes, or gifting to new wine drinkers.
Category: White Wine, Moscato
Country: California, United States
Tasting Notes: Honeysuckle, Creamy Citrus
Food Pairing: Sweet Dishes, Picnics
ABV: 8.5%
Average Price (USA): $8-$12
Castello del Poggio Moscato
A best-seller in many global markets, this Italian Moscato is slightly fizzy and super fruity, with flavors of white peach, musk, and melon. Easy to drink and extremely popular.
Category: White Wine, Moscato
Country: Italy
Tasting Notes: White Peach, Musk, Melon
Food Pairing: Fruit Salads, Light Appetizers
ABV: 7.0%
Average Price (USA): $10-$15
Risata Moscato d’Asti
Another fan-favorite, Risata offers a vibrant, effervescent Moscato with citrus, honey, and stone fruit notes. The stylish bottle also makes it an excellent gift or party wine.
Category: White Wine, Moscato
Country: Italy
Tasting Notes: Citrus, Honey, Stone Fruit
Food Pairing: Desserts, Party Snacks
ABV: 5.5%
Average Price (USA): $12-$16
Seven Daughters Moscato
A slightly more tropical take, this American Moscato is lush with flavors of lychee, mango, and orange blossom. Ideal for those who enjoy bolder sweetness with exotic flair.
Category: White Wine, Moscato
Country: California, United States
Tasting Notes: Lychee, Mango, Orange Blossom
Food Pairing: Tropical Desserts, Soft Cheeses
ABV: 7.5%
Average Price (USA): $10-$14
Vietti Cascinetta Moscato d’Asti
A classic from Piedmont, Italy, Vietti’s Moscato d’Asti is crafted from 40-year-old vines in Castiglione Tinella, offering a lightly effervescent, sweet profile with notes of honey, canned peaches, white flower petals, and ginger. It’s organic, budget-friendly, and ideal for light salads or brunch.
Category: White Wine, Moscato d’Asti
Country: Italy
Tasting Notes: Honey, Peaches, White Flowers, Ginger
Food Pairing: Light Salads, Fruit Parfaits, Italian Cheeses
ABV: 5.0%
Average Price (USA): $15-$18
Michele Chiarlo Nivole Moscato d’Asti
Another Piedmont gem, this Moscato is named after the Piedmontese word for “clouds,” reflecting its light, airy quality. It offers vibrant peach, apricot, and floral aromas with a crisp, slightly fizzy finish, perfect for gifting or pairing with desserts.
Category: White Wine, Moscato d’Asti
Country: Italy
Tasting Notes: Peach, Apricot, Floral
Food Pairing: Desserts, Fruit Tarts, Aperitifs
ABV: 5.0%
Average Price (USA): $16-$20
Candoni Moscato d’Italia
This sweet, slightly effervescent Moscato from Italy is known for its beautiful bottle and fruity flavors of peach, apricot, and citrus. It’s a crowd-pleaser, widely available, and suits casual sipping or gifting.
Category: White Wine, Moscato
Country: Italy
Tasting Notes: Peach, Apricot, Citrus
Food Pairing: Fresh Fruit, Cheeses, Spicy Dishes
ABV: 7.0%
Average Price (USA): $12-$15
Moscato Wine Price Guide
The Moscato wine price varies depending on the brand and packaging you choose.
Entry-level: Bottles such as those from Cantina Gabriele typically range from $25 to $35, offering a sweet and approachable experience at an affordable price.
Mid-range: For those seeking something more refined, options like Bartenura are priced between $40 and $60, often presented as premium bottles or elegant sets.
Luxury range: If you're going for an indulgent gesture, luxury gift baskets—such as those featuring Emilio Vada—can range from $90 to $140+, complete with gourmet snacks and upscale packaging.
So, whether you're shopping on a budget or ready to splurge, there's a perfect Moscato wine gift for every occasion.
Sweet Moscato Wine for Every Occasion
Moscato wine makes for an elegant, sweet, and heartfelt gift. Its light alcohol content, aromatic charm, and crowd-pleasing sweetness make it a top choice for birthdays, anniversaries, housewarmings, or even as a thoughtful "just because" gesture.
Moscato Wine and Gourmet Pairings
Moscato wines often pair beautifully with both sweet and savory foods, making them ideal additions to curated baskets for special occasions. Some notable combinations include:
- Bartenura Moscato d'Asti with assorted gourmet snacks – Known for its signature blue bottle, this lightly sparkling wine pairs well with both fruity and nutty treats due to its crisp profile and floral notes.
- Emilio Vada Moscato alongside light cheeses and pastries – Aromatic with peach, apricot, and sage, this Moscato complements delicately flavored foods and refined desserts.
Moscato Wine Sets and Selections
For those who enjoy variety or are exploring different expressions of Moscato, multi-bottle collections and standout labels offer a deeper tasting experience:
- Two-bottle Moscato sets often combine contrasting profiles—from fruity to floral—offering a rounded introduction to this varietal.
- Bartenura Moscato d’Asti remains a widely recognized example of the classic Moscato d’Asti style, appreciated for its gentle sparkle and universal appeal.
- Cantina Gabriele Moscato offers a light and easy-drinking style, making it suitable for relaxed settings or simple food pairings like fresh fruit and soft cheese.
DC Wine & Spirits provides delivery for Moscato wine and baskets USA wide, making it easy to send sweetness wherever your recipient may be. Our process is designed for convenience and joy—featuring fast nationwide shipping to all major U.S. cities and a seamless real-time order tracking system that keeps you informed every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Moscato wine, and what makes it a popular gift?
Moscato is a sweet, lightly sparkling or still white wine known for its fruity and floral aromas—often featuring notes of peach, apricot, orange blossom, and honey. Its low alcohol content and naturally sweet profile make it an easy-drinking, crowd-pleasing choice for celebrations and gifting.
2. Is Moscato suitable for someone who doesn’t usually drink wine?
Moscato is often recommended for beginners or occasional wine drinkers because of its light, sweet, and fruity nature. It’s approachable, not overly dry or complex, and pairs well with many foods and desserts.
3. How should Moscato be served and stored?
Serve chilled (around 6–8°C or 43–46°F) in a white wine or sparkling wine glass to enhance its aromas. After opening, reseal and store in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 2–3 days.
4. What occasions is Moscato wine best for?
Moscato is perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, housewarmings, casual get-togethers, brunches, picnics, or dessert pairings. Its sweetness and versatility make it a thoughtful and safe option for many tastes.
5. What foods pair best with Moscato wine?
Moscato complements a wide variety of foods thanks to its light sweetness and floral notes. It pairs especially well with fresh fruits, soft cheeses, and charcuterie, making it a great choice for picnics or casual gatherings. Its sweet profile also contrasts beautifully with the heat of spicy Asian dishes like Thai or Indian cuisine. For dessert, Moscato shines alongside fruit tarts, lemon cakes, or other light, fruity sweets, enhancing their flavors without overpowering them.
6. Does Moscato come in rosé or red varieties?
Yes, Moscato is available in both rosé and red versions in addition to the traditional white. Pink Moscato (or Moscato Rosé) is made by blending white Moscato with a touch of red wine, creating a soft pink hue with floral and berry flavors. Red Moscato, made from darker Muscat grape varieties, offers richer notes of cherries, berries, and citrus. Both options maintain Moscato’s signature sweetness while offering a slightly different tasting experience.
7. Is Moscato wine sparkling or still?
Moscato can be both. Moscato d’Asti is a lightly sparkling Italian version, whereas Asti Spumante is a fully sparkling (spumante) Moscato. Still Moscato that is non-sparkling is also available, though less common. All forms retain that signature sweet and aromatic profile.
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