If you typically avoid sweet wines but are curious about Moscato, there are ways to enjoy it without being overwhelmed by its sweetness.
For many wine enthusiasts, sweet wines often get a bad rap (until they meet our Honeywater Moscato). Whether it’s the fear of an overly sugary taste or memories of overly sweet beverages from the past, some people avoid sweet wines altogether. If you’ve found yourself saying, “I hate sweet wines,” but are curious about Moscato, you’re not alone. The good news is that Moscato, a popular sweet wine, has more to offer than meets the eye. With the right pairings and a bit of an open mind, you might just discover that Moscato has a place in your wine repertoire.
Common Reasons Some People Dislike Moscato:
-
Preference for Dry Wines: Many wine lovers prefer dry wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, or Pinot Noir, which have less residual sugar and more complexity. They may find Moscato too sweet and lacking in depth.
-
Perception of Sweetness: Moscato is often associated with being overly sweet or simplistic, which can lead to it being viewed as less sophisticated by some wine drinkers.
-
Wine Critics and Sommeliers: Some wine critics and sommeliers, who often favor more complex and nuanced wines, may not hold Moscato in high regard. They might prefer wines that offer a greater balance of acidity, tannins, and a broader range of flavors.
-
Experienced Wine Drinkers: Those who have developed a taste for more complex or robust wines over time may not enjoy Moscato as much, finding it too sweet and simple for their palate.
Understanding Moscato: More Than Just Sweet
Moscato, made from the Muscat grape, is renowned for its sweet, fruity flavor and light body. It often features notes of peach, apricot, and citrus, with a slightly floral aroma. While it’s undeniably sweet, Moscato also offers a refreshing acidity that balances its sweetness, making it more complex than many give it credit for.
If you typically shy away from sweet wines, the key to enjoying Moscato is to focus on how it can complement your meal or occasion rather than trying it in isolation.
1. Pair Moscato with Spicy Foods
One of the best ways to enjoy Moscato, especially if you’re not a fan of sweet wines, is to pair it with spicy foods. The sweetness of Moscato can help cool down the heat of spicy dishes, creating a balanced and enjoyable experience. Try pairing Moscato with spicy Asian cuisine, like Thai or Indian dishes, or even a spicy Mexican dish like chili-lime shrimp tacos. The contrast between the spicy heat and the sweet wine creates a harmony that can make the sweetness of Moscato more palatable.
2. Balance with Salty or Savory Foods
Another way to enjoy Moscato is by pairing it with salty or savory dishes. The sweetness of the wine can balance the saltiness of foods like prosciutto, smoked salmon, or a sharp, salty cheese like blue cheese or Parmigiano-Reggiano. This contrast can bring out the best in both the wine and the food, making the experience more complex and enjoyable.
3. Experiment with Light Desserts
If you’re open to trying Moscato with something sweet, start with light desserts that aren’t overly sugary. Fresh fruit tarts, lemon sorbet, or a simple fruit salad can pair beautifully with Moscato. The wine’s fruity notes will complement the natural sweetness of the fruit without overwhelming your palate. Alternatively, try Moscato with a cheese platter that includes a mix of cheeses and fresh fruits; this pairing can offer a delightful balance of flavors.
4. Serve Moscato Well-Chilled
Temperature plays a big role in how we perceive sweetness. Serving Moscato well-chilled can tone down its sweetness and highlight its refreshing acidity. This makes the wine feel lighter and more balanced, making it more appealing to those who typically prefer dry wines. Plus, a chilled Moscato is particularly refreshing on a warm day or as a pre-dinner aperitif.
5. Use Moscato in Cocktails
If you’re still hesitant to drink Moscato straight, consider using it in a cocktail. Moscato’s fruity and floral characteristics make it a great base for a variety of cocktails. Mix it with sparkling water, fresh citrus juice, and a splash of your favorite spirit to create a refreshing Moscato spritzer. You can also add a touch of Moscato to sangria, where it will add depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
6. Try a Moscato with Lower Residual Sugar
Not all Moscatos are created equal. Some have a higher residual sugar content, making them sweeter, while others are more balanced with higher acidity. If you’re wary of sweetness, look for Moscatos labeled as "dry" or "off-dry," which will have less residual sugar and a more balanced flavor profile. These options can offer a more nuanced experience that might appeal to those who usually prefer dry wines. One great example, of a wine that customers remark about being "smooth and not overly sweet", of course, is our Honeywater Moscato at 15% ABV. What does this have to do with sweetness? Learn by checking out our article on What Makes Wines Sweet.
7. Keep an Open Mind
Finally, the best way to enjoy Moscato if you’re not a fan of sweet wines is to approach it with an open mind. Moscato’s sweetness is only one aspect of its flavor profile. By focusing on how it pairs with different foods and enjoying it in the right context, you may find that Moscato has more to offer than you initially thought.
8. Chef It Up
If you're not big on sipping Moscato, cook with it. Moscato’s sweet, fruity flavor makes it a versatile ingredient for cooking, adding a unique touch to both savory and sweet dishes. Here are some meals you can cook with Moscato: Moscato Chicken, Pasta with Moscato Cream Sauce, Moscato-Glazed Salmon, Moscato Risotto, Moscato-Poached Pears, Moscato-Marinated Shrimp, Moscato Reduction for Desserts, Moscato-Baked Chicken Thighs, Moscato-Infused Fruit Salad.
9. If You Don't, Somebody Else Does
Beauty about all this is.. You don't have to like it because somebody else does. Gift it. There are tons of different brands and flavors that causes Moscato to shine in the world of wines. Moscato's light and fun nature makes the perfect friendly gift to be creative and share with friends and families. Be the one who gifts mom a sweet bottle of Honeywater Moscato at the baby shower. Show up with a festive bottle for the birthday parties, bridal showers, housewarmings, weddings, anniversaries, holidays, corporate parties, and more.
Conclusion: Finding Your Moscato Moment
Moscato may be a sweet wine, but it’s far from one-dimensional. With the right pairings and serving techniques, it can be a delightful addition to your wine experiences, even if you typically avoid sweet wines. So, the next time you hear “Moscato,” don’t dismiss it outright. Give it a chance with the right food, setting, and mindset, and you might just discover a new appreciation for this versatile wine.
Check out a bottle of our Honeywater Moscato and have your own special experience. Leave a comment in our review section!
Cheers!