If you want a wine that tastes of grapes then aim for a Muscat but, in terms of quality, one has to be a bit careful as there is a myriad of different types of Muscat out there and getting the wrong one can be an unfortunate experience. The different clones vary in colour, ranging from golden yellow to coal black; the wines produced go from light, dry and fresh through sparkling and into deeply satisfying, rich red dessert wines.
Characteristics: Produces a wine that smells and tastes of table grapes although can be a touch over the top sometimes and overpoweringly musky. With the right acidity, Muscat is beautifully balanced whether it is a dry, medium or sweet wine.
Where is it found? France, Italy (Moscato), Iberia (Moscatel), USA, Russia, Australia, South Africa
Wines associated: Dry white, medium dry whites, sparkling, dessert.
Food matches: Aperitif, fruit dishes, foie gras, blue cheese.