Muscat Ottonel

Muscat Ottonel

Muscat Ottonel is a white wine grape variety that is a member of the Muscat family of Vitis vinifera. It is most notable for its use in dessert wines from Austria, Romania, Croatia, and Serbia, as well as dry wines in Alsace and Hungary.

History

Muscat Ottonel was bred in France in 1852 by a viticulturist named Moreau-Robert. The grape is a cross between Chasselas and Muscat de Saumur. It was named after the viticulturist who propagated it, Robert Moreau.

Viticulture

Muscat Ottonel is a late-ripening variety, which can lead to high levels of sugar and potential alcohol in the wine. It is also susceptible to various grape diseases, including powdery mildew and botrytis cinerea. Despite these challenges, the grape is relatively easy to cultivate and is grown in a variety of climates and soil types.

Wine Regions

Muscat Ottonel is grown in several wine regions around the world. In Austria, it is primarily grown in the Burgenland region, where it is used to produce sweet dessert wines. In Romania and Moldova, it is used to produce both dry and sweet wines. In Alsace, France, it is used to produce dry, aromatic wines. It is also grown in smaller quantities in Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, and the United States.

Wine Styles

The wines produced from Muscat Ottonel are typically aromatic and floral, with flavors of peach, apricot, and honey. The grape's high sugar content can lead to wines with a high alcohol content, particularly in warmer climates. In cooler climates, the wines can be more acidic and less sweet.

Food Pairing

Muscat Ottonel wines pair well with a variety of foods. The sweet dessert wines are often paired with fruit desserts or blue cheese. The dry wines can be paired with seafood, poultry, and light pasta dishes.

See Also

• List of grape varieties
• Viticulture
• Wine tasting descriptors

External Links

• Wine-Searcher: Muscat Ottonel
• Wine Spectator: Muscat Ottonel