Varietal Character
Muscat Canelli
Every noble variety traces its lineage back to you. Yes, the entire European clan of Vitis vinifera is merely the offspring of your genes. In that sense, there are none nobler than you. After all, it was your sweet-scented perfume that first lured man to his vinous obsession. This love affair persists throughout recorded history. Thousands of years have passed, and you are as pretty and fresh as ever. Some are embarrassed by your overt forwardness, but for those of us who admit our adoration, you gratify us lavishly with magnificent bouquets of orange blossoms and lychee fruit.
Appellations Growing Muscat Canelli Grapes
Appellations producing the most Muscat Canelli wines:
Muscat Canelli Grape Details
Known by many names, this grape’s official French name is Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains, which translates as ‘Muscat with small berries’. In California, the name Muscat Canelli is common, derived from Moscato di Canelli, a name used in Italy.
In the northern hemisphere, this late-ripening variety is mainly used to make semi-sweet and sweet dessert wines, or as a table grape. Grown in many countries, including Austria and Germany (Muskateller), Hungary (Muscat Lunel), and France (Muscat Frontignan), it may be the oldest known grape, having been confirmed as growing around the Mediterranean for centuries. However, it should not be confused with Muscat of Alexandria, a grape with a similar ancient history in the same region.
