Golden Muscat

Golden Muscat is a minor American hybrid, producing grapey dessert wines and known for its aromatic intensity.

The Golden Muscat variety has large bunches of large berries. The grapes have a thick, golden-yellow skin. They have a pronounced floral aroma, with hints of apricot, peach, honey and rose. This variety produces wines that are medium- to full-bodied, with moderate levels of acidity and a rich, honeyed finish. The wines may have a foxy (labrusca) flavour.

Golden Muscat is a very versatile variety, with the ability to thrive in a variety of climates. It is grown mostly in the eastern US, in states such as Indiana and Illinois and even in the more southerly state of Tennessee. Golden Muscat is a vigorous variety. It is late ripening and therefore sometimes struggles to get to full maturity. The wines made from Golden Muscat are typically fermented in stainless steel, and are often blended with other varieties to add complexity and balance. Wines tend to be rich and full bodied. They are usually sweet and may have a foxy (labrusca) flavour. Golden Muscat is a very versatile variety, and it pairs well with a variety of foods. Its intense aromatics make it a great companion for dishes with strong flavours, such as curries, grilled meats and roasted vegetables. It also pairs well with milder dishes, such as fish and salads.

Golden Muscat is a hybrid which was bred at Cornell University in New York State by crossing Muscat of Hamburg with Moore's Diamond.