If you’re a wine lover, you may have heard of Moscato d’Asti and Prosecco.
Both are popular Italian sparkling wines that have been gaining popularity in recent years.
While they share some similarities, both wines also have unique differences that set them apart.
In this article, you will learn the differences between Mosacato D’Asti and Prosecco.
Quick answer: Moscato d’Asti is a sweet, fruity sparkling wine with a low alcohol content from Piedmont, while Prosecco is a dry, refreshing sparkling wine with a higher alcohol content from the Veneto region.
Contents
- 1 What is Moscato d’Asti?
- 2 What is Prosecco?
- 3 Taste Differences between Moscato d’Asti and Prosecco
- 4 Serving Temperature and Pairings
- 5 Occasions for Drinking Moscato d’Asti
- 6 Occasions for Drinking Prosecco
- 7 Moscato d’Asti and Prosecco Variations
- 8 How to Choose Between Moscato d’Asti and Prosecco
- 9 Conclusion
- 10 FAQs
What is Moscato d’Asti?
Moscato d’Asti is a sweet, bubbly wine that originates from the Piedmont region in Italy. It’s made from Muscat grapes, known for their aromatic and fruity flavor.
Moscato d’Asti is typically low in alcohol content, ranging from 5-8%. Serve as an aperitif or dessert wine.
What is Prosecco?
Prosecco is a dry, sparkling wine that comes from the Veneto region in Italy.
It’s made from Glera grapes, known for their crisp, refreshing taste; however, Verdiso, Bianchetta Trevigiana, and Perera grapes are also sometimes used.
It has a higher alcohol content than Moscato d’Asti , ranging from 11-12%. It’s a versatile wine that you can enjoy on its own or used in cocktails.
Taste Differences between Moscato d’Asti and Prosecco
Moscato d’Asti has a sweet, fruity taste with a slight effervescence. It has flavors of peach, apricot, and orange blossom.
Prosecco, on the other hand, is often dry and crisp with a light, refreshing taste; however, it is also made in an off-dry style.
Some Proseccos are full sparkling (spumante) and some have a light sparkle (frizzante).
It has flavors of apple, lemon and delicate stone fruit.
Serving Temperature and Pairings
Moscato d’Asti is best served well chilled, between 43-50°F (6-10°C). It pairs well with light, fruity desserts like fruit tarts, sorbets, and custards.
Prosecco is also best served well chilled, between 43-50°F (6-10°C). It pairs well with a variety of foods, including seafood, pasta, and cheese.
Occasions for Drinking Moscato d’Asti
Moscato d’Asti is a popular choice for special occasions like birthdays or holidays. Sweet and bubbly, it’s a great choice for toasting,
Its low alcohol content also makes it a light and refreshing option for brunches and picnics.
Occasions for Drinking Prosecco
Prosecco is a versatile wine that can be enjoyed on its own or used in cocktails, like the Bellini cocktail. It’s a great choice for a pre-dinner drink and special occassions.
It also pairs well with a variety of foods, making it a great choice for dinner parties and gatherings.
Moscato d’Asti and Prosecco Variations
Prosecco and Moscato d’Asti both have variations that can affect their taste and quality.
Moscato d’Asti has a lighter sparkle and a higher sugar content than Asti DOCG.
Prosecco Superiore is a higher quality Prosecco made from grapes grown in a specific region of Italy.
How to Choose Between Moscato d’Asti and Prosecco
When choosing between Moscato d’Asti and Prosecco, it’s important to consider the occasion and your own personal taste preferences.
If you’re looking for a sweet, bubbly wine to pair with dessert or toast to a special occasion, Moscato d’Asti is the way to go.
However, if you prefer a dry, refreshing wine that can be enjoyed on its own or used to make cocktails or other mixed drinks, Prosecco is the better choice.
Conclusion
Prosecco and Moscato d’Asti are two popular sparkling wines that have distinct differences in taste, alcohol content, and occasions for drinking.
Moscato d’Asti is a sweet, fruity wine with a low alcohol content that’s best suited for desserts, celebrations, and brunches.
Prosecco, on the other hand, is a dry, refreshing wine with a higher alcohol content that’s great for happy hour, dinner parties, and gatherings.
Ultimately, the choice between Moscato d’Asti and Prosecco comes down to your own personal preference and the occasion.
FAQs
What is the meaning of d’Asti in wine?
Asti is a region in Italy. D’Asti is short for “de Asti’ meaning “from Asti”. In other words, it is simply a reference to where the wine is from.
What is the difference between Moscato d’Asti and Prosecco?
Moscato d’Asti is a sweet, fruity wine with a low alcohol content, while Prosecco is a dry, refreshing wine with a higher alcohol content.
Which Moscato d’Asti is sweet?
Moscato wines are generally known for their sweet flavor profile. The level of sweetness varies depending on the wine.
If you prefer sweeter Moscato d’Asti wines, some good options to consider are:
- Stella Rosa Moscato d’Asti, Bartenura Moscato
- Cupcake Vineyards Moscato d’Asti
However, it’s worth noting that taste preferences differ from person to person, so the sweetness level that you prefer may not be the same as someone else’s.
What grape is Moscato d’Asti made from?
Moscato d’Asti is made from Muscat grapes.
What grape is Prosecco made from?
Prosecco is made from Glera grapes.
What is the best temperature for serving Moscato d’Asti?
Moscato d’Asti is best served chilled, between 43-50°F (6-10°C).
What foods pair well with Prosecco?
Prosecco pairs well with a variety of foods, including seafood, pasta, and cheese.
Can you make cocktails with Moscato d’Asti and Prosecco?
Prosecco is commonly used in cocktails, while Moscato d’Asti is not typically used in cocktails.
What is the difference between Moscato and Moscato d’Asti?
Moscato d’Asti is a specific type of Moscato from the Asti region in Italy that is lightly sparkling, low in alcohol, and sweet.
Moscato, on the other hand, is a broader term used to describe wines made from the Moscato grape, which can have varying levels of sweetness and come from different regions around the world.
Which is better, Moscato d’Asti or Prosecco?
The choice between Moscato and Prosecco comes down to personal preference and the occasion.
If you’re looking for a sweet, bubbly wine to pair with dessert or toast to a special occasion, Moscato is the way to go.
If you prefer a dry, refreshing wine to enjoy on its own or paired with a variety of foods, Prosecco is the better choice.
Which is cheaper – Prosecco or Moscato d’Asti?
There are many different brands and price points for both Prosecco and Moscato d’Asti, so it’s possible to find both wines at a range of prices.
There are inexpensive options for both wines, as well as higher-end, premium options.
It’s always a good idea to compare prices at your local wine shop or online to find the best deal.
Read with confidence: I am a certified wine expert (WSET L3).
