Moscatel

Moscatel is the Iberian name for the Muscat family of grape varieties. Muscat (or Moscato) is a group of related cultivars grown in many wine regions worldwide and used to produce a range of wines from dry and semi-dry to very sweet. Moscatel wines are typically highly aromatic, with perfumes of grape, orange blossom, and citrus, and can be light-bodied or full-bodied depending on style and region. The grapes carry high natural sugar and characteristic grape- and floral flavors.

In Portugal and Spain the term Moscatel is also associated with particular fortified and dessert wines. In Portugal, Moscatel de Setúbal is a renowned fortified wine from the Setúbal Peninsula, mostly made from Moscatel de Setúbal and sometimes other Muscat clones; it is often aged in wood to develop complexity. Spanish Moscatel wines are produced in Málaga and Valencia (and other areas) and range from sweet fortified styles to late-harvest wines. Madeira also produces Moscatel wines—aromatic, sweet wines that may be aged oxidatively for lengthy periods.

Globally, Muscat/Moscatel styles are marketed as dry, semi-sweet, or sweet table wines and dessert wines. The name Moscatel is distinct from the Italian-mannered Moscato, though both derive from the same Muscat family; in everyday usage, Moscatel refers to Iberian styles and grape varieties, while Moscato is more common in Italian and international branding.