If you’re looking for a delicious wine to enjoy, you might be wondering whether to choose riesling vs moscato.
Both wines are popular choices, but they offer different flavors and experiences.
In this blog post, we’ll compare riesling and moscato so that you can make the best decision for your needs.
We’ll discuss the flavor profiles of both wines and their unique benefits, so when you consider riesling vs. moscato, you’ll know which you want.
What is Riesling Wine
Riesling is a white wine that has its origins in Germany, though it is now made all over the world.
Riesling typically displays relatively high acidity and fruity aromas, making it both refreshing and nuanced.
It is often associated with flavors of tropical fruits like pineapple, as well as flowery notes like jasmine or lilac.
In addition, riesling often exhibits mineral qualities that give it an earthy, savory character.
Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with rich seafood dishes or spicy foods, riesling is an excellent choice for any oenophile looking to add a bit of variety to their beverage collection.
Read More: The Best Way to Serve Riesling Wine. Learn more about Riesling, how to serve it, what to pair it with, and more!
What is Moscato Wine
Moscato wine is a popular type of wine made from the moscato grape.
This small, aromatic grape is typically grown in warm climates, where it produces thick clusters of white or pink-hued berries.
Moscato wine is known for its sweet, fruity flavor and low alcohol content.
In addition to being a versatile drink that pairs well with a wide variety of foods, moscato wine has also been shown to offer a number of health benefits.
So if you’re looking for a tasty glass of wine to enjoy at your next dinner party or social gathering, why not give moscato a try? You won’t be disappointed.
Read More: Moscato vs Chardonnay. We compare Mocato and Chardonnay in this wine guide!
Similarities Between Riesling Vs Moscato
So, here’s how the two wines measure up in terms of their similarities:
- Both riesling and moscato are white wines
- They are both versatile drinks that can be paired with a variety of foods
- Both riesling and moscato have fruity flavors
- Riesling and moscato are both relatively low in alcohol content
- They are both popular choices for those who enjoy drinking wine
So, does it matter which wine you would choose?
While riesling and moscato are similar in some ways, they are very different in others.
Differences Between Riesling Vs Moscato
Now, let’s look at some of the differences between the two wines.
In general, if you’re looking for a refreshing, fruity beverage with high acidity, then riesling is the way to go.
However, if you’re looking for something sweet and light, then moscato is the better choice.
Here are some more differences between the two wines.
Origin
The differences between riesling and moscato begin with their points of origin.
Riesling is a white wine that originated in Germany, while moscato is a sparkling wine made from Muscat grapes that are native to Italy.
Riesling is typically light-bodied with floral aromas, while Moscato is known for being sweet and fruity.
When it comes to taste, riesling can range from dry to sweet, while moscato is always on the sweeter side.
As a result, riesling goes well with food, thanks to its acidity, while moscato is best enjoyed as an aperitif or dessert wine.
So choosing between riesling and moscato may simply mean choosing a bottle of riesling with dinner and a bottle of moscato with dessert.
Flavor Profile
Riesling and moscato are two very different types of wine, each with a unique flavor profile. Riesling is tart and fruity, with notes of citrus, apples, and tropical fruits.
On the other hand, moscato is much sweeter, with flavors of berries and stone fruits like peaches and plums.
Whether you prefer riesling’s crisp tartness or moscato’s sweet berry notes, one of these styles is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Pairings
Different wines have different pairings, and riesling is no exception.
This versatile white wine pairs well with rich seafood dishes such as salmon or crab cakes, as well as spicy foods like Thai curries or Indian curries.
However, because moscato is sweet it pairs especially well with light desserts such as fruit tarts or yogurt parfaits.
Alcohol Content
While both riesling and moscato have a lower than average alcohol content for wine, within that range they differ quite a bit.
Riesling has an alcohol content of about 8-9% while Moscato has an alcohol content of 5-6%.
This is another good reason why moscato would work well as a dessert wine.
Other differences between riesling and moscato
We’ve looked at some of the basic differences between the two wines that any wine connoisseur would want to know.
Here are some others that you might want to know about.
Health Benefits
Moscato has been shown to offer a number of health benefits due to its high antioxidant content.
Regular consumption of moscato has been linked to better cardiovascular health, lower risk of certain types of cancer, and improved immune function.
In addition, studies have shown that the riesling grape used in some moscato wines possesses even greater antioxidant properties than many other well-known foods like blueberries and raspberries.
So, if you are looking for a delicious way to boost your overall health, it might be worth considering incorporating moscato into your diet.
Mineral Content
Riesling is known for its distinctive mineral content, which gives the wine an earthy flavor and signature mouthfeel.
These minerals are typically sourced from the soil in which riesling grapes are grown, and they infuse riesling with a complex aroma that is unlike any other varietal on the market.
Moscato typically does not have these same undertones, and its overall flavor tends to be softer and less acidic than riesling.
How to Choose Between Riesling and Moscato?
When it comes to choosing between Riesling vs Moscato, it may be as simple as choosing whether you want to serve wine with dinner or dessert.
Better yet, serve it with both and you can have both types of wine.
Otherwise, it really depends on your personal preference. If you like bolder flavors, then riesling is the way to go.
But if you prefer something sweeter and more refreshing, then Moscato is the wine for you.