BubblyItalian delight: Asti DOCG wine

Savour la dolce vita with Asti DOCG wines, two popular choices from Piedmont, Italy that embody the ethos of the sweet life. Whether you're seeking a perfect pairing for an aperitivo or a festive celebration, Asti Spumante and Moscato d'Asti offer countless ways to enjoy the sweet life.

Moscato d'Asti, a sparkling wine characterized by honeyed notes of peach and orange blossom, is a surprising match for culinary delights from the East as well as a classic partner for zabaione, a dessert made from egg yolks, sugar, and sweet wine, traditionally served with buttery biscuits. Pairing Moscato d'Asti with zabaione is considered one of the ultimate Italian pairings.

For those who prefer a drier flavor profile, Asti Spumante, another wine from Piedmont, offers a slightly drier flavor with notes of peach, pear, tropical fruit, elderflower, and acacia. Asti Spumante pairs beautifully with strong cheeses such as Pecorino or Gorgonzola, as well as cured meats like Prosciutto and speck. The contrasting balance between sweet and savory taps into the historic gastronomic traditions of Piedmont, elevating the experience of antipasti.

Asti Spumante is also a great choice for pairing with salty, fatty, and umami-rich foods, complementing the flavours and enhancing the overall dining experience. Salted almonds and a simple snack of punchy blue cheese are perfect options for an aperitivo with Asti Spumante.

Spring is the season for Asti DOCG wines, making them a great choice for festive celebrations. Asti Spumante is a popular choice for pairing with panettone, a sweet, yeast-raised bread loaf from Milan, traditionally enjoyed during the Christmas season.

Moscato d'Asti and tagliere, platters of cured meats, regional cheeses, olives, figs, and nuts, also make for an excellent pairing. The bubbles in Moscato d'Asti cut through the richness of the meats and cheeses, while the sweetness complements the savoury flavours.

Both Moscato d'Asti and Asti Spumante are low-alcohol sparkling wine options, making them a great choice for those seeking accessible alternatives. Asti Spumante has more persistent bubbles and a higher alcohol content than Moscato d'Asti, with typical levels of 7-9%, and dry styles can reach 11%.

So, whether you're planning a romantic dinner or a festive celebration, Asti DOCG wines offer a delightful way to savour la dolce vita. Cheers to the sweet life!