The Orange Muscat grape is a white grape variety that presents a delightfully unique flavour profile, often employed in the production of dessert wines. This grape derives its name from its distinctive orange aroma, making it a stand out from the more general muscat grape family.
Originating in Italy, and now grown globally, Orange Muscat grapes are small to medium in size, typically golden in colour, and possess an intense fragrance reminiscent of orange blossom and apricots. When consumed, the grape exhibits a rich, juicy texture that enlivens the palate with its sweet, zesty aftertaste.
In addition to consumption as a fresh fruit, the Orange Muscat grape is principally involved in producing two types of wine: a spirited-style often labelled as 'Moscato', and a still, sweeter style characterised by its lower alcohol content. The latter type showcases the grape's vibrant aroma and natural sweetness to perfection, whereas the spirited-style brings forth a fortifying effect. Experts often recommend pairing these wines with diverse desserts due to their decadently intense flavours.
The Orange Muscat grape thrives in cooler climates, hence it's cultivated in the Northeastern regions of Italy, as well as California and Australia. In vineyards, the grapevine is a vigorous growth, requiring careful viticulture practices to maintain quality.
When purchasing Orange Muscat-based wines, they are best enjoyed in their youth to fully appreciate their lively nuances and fragrant essence. Overall, the Orange Muscat grape is a multi-faceted fruit, offering an invigorating and indulgent experience for wine connoisseurs and amateurs alike. From its effervescent aroma to its lush feel on the palate, the Orange Muscat grape indeed warrants its notable stature in the winemaking domain.
Buy Orange Muscat wine below.