Vignaioli di S. Stefano, Moscato d’Asti (Piedmont, Italy) 2008

A cooperative venture involving the Ceretto family of Barolo fame, Vignaioli di S. Stefano aims to produce high-quality Moscato wine rather than cheap fizz as often comes from Asti.  With the 2008, they certainly have succeeded.  Only slightly effervescent, the wine exhibits excellent balance, with sufficient acidity to stay focused and plenty of peachy fruit.  Carrying only 5.5% alcohol, it’s light and airy—an ideal warm weather sipper.  Off dry but not fully sweet, this would be a great aperitif choice, as well as a fine partner for fresh fruit desserts.