Moscatel

Moscatel is one of the many synonyms of the Muscat grape (there are over 200) used to describe the variety in Spain; it takes its name from its musky, rich aroma.  Muscat is one of the oldest grapes in the Mediterranean basin and today it is best known for sweet, dessert wines made from botrytized (noble rotted) grapes such as the famous Vin de Constance in Klein Constantia and dessert wines in Greece, Hungary, France, Italy and Germany. 

It can be quite a difficult grape to grow since it is susceptible to mildew and rot but produces wines of a pungent, grapey aroma with lots of floral and spicy notes.  Today Muscat is a palette upon which the winemaker can create his work of art; as a result there is a great variety of different styles and quality levels.