Few white grape varieties carry the aromatic power and ancient heritage of Moscatel de Alejandría — Muscat of Alexandria to most wine lovers. One of the oldest cultivated vines in the world, it produces wines of extraordinary fragrance: think orange blossom, ripe stone fruit, candied citrus peel and a whisper of honey. Whether vinified dry or off-dry, these are wines that announce themselves boldly from the moment you pour. At Mercado 46 we source thoughtfully, bringing you expressive, terroir-driven bottles that genuinely reflect what this remarkable variety can achieve in skilled hands.
The Grape Behind the Perfume
Moscatel de Alejandría — known internationally as Muscat of Alexandria — is arguably one of the most recognisable grapes on the planet, yet it remains fascinatingly under-explored by many serious wine drinkers. Its large-berried clusters yield wines of intense aromatic concentration, layering floral top notes over a generous, fruit-forward mid-palate of peach, apricot, mandarin and exotic spice. The mouthfeel can range from racy and mineral-edged in dry expressions to lusciously textured in sweeter styles, making it one of the most versatile varieties in the white wine canon.
Unlike its sibling Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains, this variety tends toward greater body and richness, with a slightly lower natural acidity that lends itself beautifully to early drinking. When handled with restraint in the cellar — minimal intervention, careful temperature-controlled fermentation — the results are wines of genuine character and immediacy.
A Bottle Worth Knowing
Leading our current selection is the Fabio Coullet Secuencial 2022, a joven-style release from the talented Fabio Coullet winery. At around €15, it offers exceptional value for a wine of this aromatic complexity. On the nose, expect lifted orange blossom and white peach with a delicate honeyed undertone; the palate is fresh and fruit-forward, with a clean, floral finish that lingers pleasantly. It is a wine that drinks beautifully on its own but equally rewards the table.
Food Pairing & Serving Notes
Dry and off-dry expressions of Moscatel de Alejandría are remarkably food-friendly. Their aromatic lift and gentle weight make them natural partners for lightly spiced dishes, fresh shellfish, sushi, cured fish and soft fresh cheeses. Sweeter iterations — where the grape's natural sugar concentration is preserved or enhanced — are compelling alongside desserts featuring stone fruits, honey-based pastries or sharp blue cheeses where contrast is the aim.
Serve between 8–10°C to preserve the aromatics and maintain that characteristic vibrancy on the palate. Avoid over-chilling, which can mute the very qualities that make these wines so captivating.
Shop Moscatel de Alejandría at Mercado 46
At Mercado 46 we curate our range with the discerning wine lover in mind — prioritising producers who respect the variety and the land. Browse our selection, add your favourites to your basket and enjoy reliable delivery straight to your door. This is Spanish wine culture at its most expressive, available to you wherever you are.
