Moscato Sparkling Wine: A Simple Guide to Sweet, Light Bubbles

Some wines are made for slow dinners, and others are made for sunny afternoons, brunch and easy celebrations. Moscato is in the second group. It is sweet, fruity and light, and it is a popular choice for people who are new to wine. This guide explains what moscato is, how the pink style differs and how it compares with a dry white such as Chardonnay.

What Is Moscato Sparkling Wine?

Moscato sparkling wine is made from Muscat grapes, which have a strong, sweet aroma. The wine usually tastes of peach, orange blossom and lychee. It is lightly sweet, has fine bubbles and is often lower in alcohol than many table wines, although the exact level depends on the bottle. Because it is easy to drink and not heavy, it suits people who prefer a softer style.

Wine Moscato Pink: What Makes It Different

Wine moscato pink has the same sweet, fruity character as regular moscato, but it adds red berry flavours and a pink colour. You will often notice strawberry, raspberry and rose petal. The colour comes from a small addition of red grapes or red wine, depending on how the producer makes it.

Pink moscato is popular for:

• Casual get-togethers and picnics
• Birthday celebrations and baby showers
• Brunch with friends
• Gifts for people who enjoy sweeter wines

It looks good in the glass, which is part of its appeal.

Petersons Chardonnay: A Food-Friendly White

Not everyone wants a sweet wine, and that is where Chardonnay comes in. Chardonnay is a dry white wine that can range from fresh and crisp to rounder and fuller. Common flavours include citrus, stone fruit and melon. When oak is used, the wine can also show notes of vanilla and toast. In the Hunter Valley, Chardonnay is one of the main white varieties, and it is widely enjoyed with food.

Petersons Wines lists its range on its products page, so you can read the details of each wine, including Petersons Chardonnay, before you decide what to buy.

Moscato or Chardonnay: Which to Choose?

• Sweetness:Moscato is sweet. Chardonnay is dry.
• Body:Moscato is light and fresh. Chardonnay is usually medium-bodied.
• Bubbles: Moscato sparkling wine is lightly bubbly. Most Chardonnay is still, although sparkling versions exist.
• Best for: Great for sipping, desserts and casual occasions, Moscato. Chardonnay suits meals and dinner parties.
• Taste preference: If you prefer sweeter drinks, try moscato. Chardonnay is the wine for you if you like a crisp, savory white.

Food Pairing Ideas

Moscato:

• Fresh fruit and fruit salad
• Light desserts, such as pavlova or sponge cake
• Soft cheeses
• Mildly spicy dishes, since the sweetness balances the heat

Chardonnay:

• Roast chicken
• Seafood, including prawns and grilled fish
• Creamy pasta
• Mild or soft cheeses

Serving Tips

Serve moscato very cold, around 4 to 8 degrees Celsius, so the bubbles stay lively and the sweetness feels fresh. Chardonnay is best lightly chilled, around 8 to 12 degrees, because very cold temperatures can hide its flavour. Use a clean glass, and pour gently to keep the bubbles in a sparkling wine. If you do not finish a bottle of sparkling wine, use a proper sparkling stopper and keep it in the fridge. It will usually stay pleasant for a day or two.

Final Thoughts

Moscato is a good first step into wine, and Chardonnay is a dependable choice for meals. Choose the style that fits the occasion, serve it at the right temperature and enjoy it with simple food. To see the range and read about each bottle, visit Petersons Wines.