Asti
Asti (/ˈæsti/; Italian: [ˈasti]) is a sparkling wine from the Piedmont region of north-western Italy, produced primarily from the Moscato Bianco grape. It is protected under Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG) status and is one of Italy’s most widely recognised sweet sparkling wines.[1]
Background
The town of Asti and its surrounding hills have been associated with viticulture since Roman times, with Moscato wines long noted for their fragrant style.[2] The modern sparkling version, often referred to as Asti Spumante, emerged in the 19th century when producers refined secondary fermentation techniques. In 1993, Asti was granted DOCG status, reflecting its importance in Italian wine law and its strict geographical and production criteria.[3]
Characteristics
Asti is characteristically low in alcohol, typically around 7–9% abv, and is noted for its sweetness and pronounced aromatic intensity. The wines are lightly sparkling (spumante) rather than fully effervescent, and display flavours of fresh grape, peach, citrus blossom and tropical fruit.[4] A distinction exists between Asti and Moscato d’Asti, the latter being lightly sparkling (frizzante), with slightly lower pressure and alcohol, but sharing the same varietal basis.
Use in winemaking
Production of Asti is based on the Charmat method, where fermentation takes place in large pressurised tanks to retain primary fruit aromas.[5] This method preserves the grape’s natural aromatics and freshness. The wines are intended for early consumption rather than long ageing and are commonly served chilled as an aperitif or with fruit-based desserts. Asti has also played a significant role in the export market, particularly in Northern Europe and North America, where it is widely consumed during festive occasions.[6]
See also
References
- ↑ Robinson (ed.), The Oxford Companion to Wine, Oxford University Press, 2015.
- ↑ Scienza, Atlante dei vini d’Italia: Piemonte, Touring Editore, 2011 (Italian).
- ↑ Consorzio dell’Asti DOCG, consorzioastidocg.it (Italian).
- ↑ Johnson & Robinson, The World Atlas of Wine, 8th ed., 2019.
- ↑ Robinson (ed.), The Oxford Companion to Wine, Oxford University Press, 2015.
- ↑ Consorzio dell’Asti DOCG, consorzioastidocg.it (Italian).