Moscatel

Moscatel is a type of grape that is used in the production of wine. The Moscatel grape is known for its sweet, musky flavor and is used in a variety of wines, including dessert wines, fortified wines, and sparkling wines.

History

The Moscatel grape is believed to be one of the oldest genetically unmodified vines still in existence. It has a long history of cultivation, with evidence of its use in wine production dating back to the time of the Ancient Greeks.

Varieties

There are several varieties of Moscatel grapes, including Moscatel de Alejandría, Moscatel de Grano Menudo, and Moscatel de Setúbal. Each variety has its own unique characteristics and is used to produce different types of wines.

Moscatel de Alejandría

Moscatel de Alejandría is a white grape variety that is primarily used in the production of sweet dessert wines. It is named after the city of Alexandria in Egypt and is believed to have been brought to Spain by the Phoenicians.

Moscatel de Grano Menudo

Moscatel de Grano Menudo is a smaller grape variety that is known for its intense aroma. It is used in the production of both sweet and dry wines.

Moscatel de Setúbal

Moscatel de Setúbal is a grape variety that is native to the Setúbal Peninsula in Portugal. It is used to produce a fortified wine of the same name.

Wine Production

The Moscatel grape is used in the production of a variety of wines. The grapes are often left on the vine until they reach a high level of ripeness, which contributes to the sweet, fruity flavor of the wines. In addition to dessert wines, Moscatel grapes are also used to produce fortified wines, such as Moscatel de Setúbal and Moscatel de Valencia, and sparkling wines, such as Moscatel Espumoso.

Food Pairing

Moscatel wines are often paired with desserts, due to their sweet flavor. They can also be paired with spicy foods, as the sweetness of the wine can help to balance out the heat of the food.