2007 Saracco Moscato d'Asti

"What's so compelling about Moscato d'Asti? It's a slightly sweet, fizzy white wine with low alcohol (typically only 6 percent, which is less than half that of a regular table wine) and a captivating taste and scent. Made entirely from the moscato bianco grape variety, it comes from the Asti zone in Italy's Piedmont region. An artisanal wine originally made by small winegrowers for consumption by family and friends, Moscato d'Asti has since acquired a devoted following from lovers of Italian wines worldwide. It is the ideal summer sipper because its complex, intense scents of peaches and honeysuckle are allied to a surprising vibrant, refreshing acidity. That, along with the low alcohol, makes this really fine wine almost gulpable. Moscato d'Asti boasts numerous fine producers. But the finest, for me, is the district's greatest specialist, Paolo Saracco. In the 2007 vintage he created what, in my experience, is the finest Moscato d'Asti he has yet produced, with an unrivaled intensity, complexity and balance. If you've never tried Moscato d'Asti (try it with poundcake or, even better, chocolate truffles) you're in for a treat -- even a revelation." Matt Kramer Sunday, June 08, 2008 The Oregonian