Moscato d'Asti is indeed sweeter than regular Moscato. This is due to the fact that Moscato d'Asti is made from the Moscato Bianco grape, which naturally has high levels of sugar. The winemaking process for Moscato d'Asti also allows for some residual sugar to remain in the final product, resulting in a sweeter taste.
Regular Moscato, on the other hand, can refer to a variety of different wines made from the Moscato grape. These wines can range in sweetness levels, from bone-dry to slightly sweet. However, in general, Moscato d'Asti tends to be sweeter than most other Moscato wines.
The sweetness of Moscato d'Asti can vary depending on the producer and the specific vintage. Some Moscato d'Asti wines may have a very pronounced sweetness, while others may have a more balanced sweetness with acidity to counteract it. It's important to note that Moscato d'Asti is typically lower in alcohol than regular Moscato, usually around 5-6% ABV, which further enhances its perception of sweetness.
Personally, I have found Moscato d'Asti to be a delightful and refreshing wine. Its sweetness is often accompanied by vibrant flavors of ripe stone fruits like peaches and apricots, as well as floral notes of orange blossom and honeysuckle. The light sparkle in Moscato d'Asti adds a playful effervescence to the wine, making it an enjoyable choice for casual sipping or as an accompaniment to desserts.
In terms of food pairing, Moscato d'Asti's sweetness makes it a fantastic match for desserts such as fruit tarts, sorbets, and creamy desserts like panna cotta. It also pairs well with salty and savory snacks like charcuterie or spicy Asian dishes, as the sweetness can help balance out the heat.
To summarize, Moscato d'Asti is generally sweeter than regular Moscato due to its higher residual sugar content and lower alcohol levels. Its sweetness is often accompanied by vibrant fruit flavors and a light sparkle, making it a delightful and versatile wine for various occasions.