Thought to be the oldest varietal in the world, Muscat is a sweet and fruity grape with a rich, musky aroma. It is grown worldwide in countries with temparate climates including many in the Mediterranean and Eastern Europe as well as the U.S., Chile and Australia.

There are over 200 varieties and derivatives of Muscat. and the with each, the grape skins vary greatly from white and brown to almost black.  This allows for Muscat to be used for a broad range of wines, from dry and light to sweet and heavy.

The most used and popular varieties include, Muscat Blanc  (used in the Italian sparking wine, Spumante), Muscato Giallo, Muscat Hamburg (also known as Black Muscat), Muscat of Alexandria and Muscat Ottonel & Orange Muscat, both of which are used in dessert wines.

Muscat is most often found in Chilean table wines and Californian and Italian dessert wines. The grape is harvested late in those regions giving them time to fully ripen and making them exceptionally sweet.

With a so many varietes and a wide range of flavors, here are a few pairing ideas: melon and prosciutto with a dry Muscat; vanilla ice cream with a sweet Muscat; Crepes Suzette with an Orange Muscat.