The Favaios Douro Moscatel Do Douro is a stunning golden-hued fortified wine crafted in Portugal's Douro Valley from the aromatic Moscatel Galego grape variety. Renowned for its rich floral and citrus aromas—featuring notes of orange blossom, lime, and tangerine—this wine delights the palate with a luscious sweetness, reminiscent of honey, caramel, and fruit jams. Its velvety texture and well-balanced profile make it an ideal companion for desserts such as orange cake or almond-based treats, as well as for pairing with creamy cheeses. Perfectly served chilled, this sweet and elegant wine is a luxurious aperitif or a decadent indulgence for any occasion.
Process & Profile
Favaios Douro Moscatel Do Douro is crafted using time-honored winemaking methods. The Moscatel Galego grapes are subjected to intense maceration on their skins, extracting a wealth of aromatic compounds. Fermentation is interrupted by the addition of grape brandy, achieving a sweet profile while preserving the wine's natural freshness. The wine then undergoes aging for up to three years, allowing it to develop harmony, complexity, and a distinct character.
With an alcohol content of 17%, this wine boasts a golden hue and a crystal-clear appearance. The careful aging process ensures that every bottle embodies the full essence of the Douro region's terroir and winemaking tradition.
Tasting Notes
Favaios Moscatel Do Douro offers a sensory experience that reflects its robust grape variety:
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Aromas: Floral and citrusy notes dominate, featuring orange, tangerine, lime, and hints of honey and caramel.
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Palate: Sweet and velvety, it presents flavors of honeyed fruits and fruit jams, with a lingering smoothness that delights the palate.
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Finish: The finish is elegant and enduring, leaving traces of candied fruits and caramelized sweetness.
This balance of sweetness and acidity ensures a refreshing and sophisticated tasting experience.
What Makes It Special
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Unique Terroir: Produced in the picturesque Douro Valley, the wine benefits from a continental climate that enhances the richness of the grapes, setting it apart from other Moscatels like those of Set√∫bal, which tend to be fresher and more acidic.
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Traditional Vinification: The intricate maceration and controlled fermentation techniques allow the wine to capture the full aromatic potential of the Moscatel Galego grape, making it a true emblem of craftsmanship.
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Aged to Perfection: Spending up to three years in aging, Favaios Moscatel achieves a harmonious blend of youthful vibrancy and mature complexity.
How to Enjoy
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Serving Temperature: For optimal flavor, serve chilled at a temperature of 10–12ºC.
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Food Pairings: This wine pairs beautifully with orange or almond-based desserts, honey-drizzled baked Brie, nut-based pastries, and citrus cakes. It's also an exquisite aperitif, capable of standing alone or complementing a cheese platter.
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Occasions: Whether served as a celebratory toast, paired with an indulgent dessert, or enjoyed during a quiet evening, it elevates any moment into an extraordinary experience.
Favaios Douro Moscatel Do Douro combines tradition, craftsmanship, and a captivating flavor profile, making it a must-try for wine enthusiasts seeking an authentic taste of Portugal's Douro Valley.
Frequently Asked Questions
What grape variety is used in Favaios Douro Moscatel do Douro?
Favaios Moscatel is made exclusively from Moscatel Galego Branco, known for its aromatic profile and high natural sweetness.
What does Favaios Douro Moscatel taste like?
This wine features rich, complex aromas of orange, dried apricot, floral notes like roses and lime, and hints of smoke and cocoa. The palate is mild, delicate, and sweet with balanced freshness and elegance.
How is Favaios Douro Moscatel made?
The wine is fortified by adding brandy during fermentation, halting the process and retaining natural sweetness. It is aged for at least 18 months in wooden barrels, allowing it to develop complex flavors.
What is the recommended serving temperature for this Moscatel?
It should be served chilled, ideally between 10–12°C (50–54°F), to best enjoy its aromatic richness and refreshing qualities.
What food pairs well with Favaios Douro Moscatel?
The wine pairs wonderfully with desserts, particularly those made with almonds, eggs, or oranges. It also complements cheeses like Brie or desserts featuring nuts and honey.
How long can Favaios Douro Moscatel be stored?
When properly stored away from light, heat, and extreme cold, this wine can maintain its quality and characteristics for several years.
What sets Moscatel do Douro apart from other Moscatel wines?
Moscatel do Douro is known for its unctuous, powerful character with well-defined floral and citrus aromas. It differs from Moscatel de Set√∫bal, which typically has a fresher acidity due to the Atlantic influence.
Has Favaios Douro Moscatel received any awards?
Yes, it has received numerous accolades, including an 88-point rating from Robert Parker and multiple silver medals from prestigious wine competitions like Decanter World Wine Awards and Mundus Vini.
Is this wine suitable as a dessert wine or apéritif?
Yes, it is versatile and works well as both. Its sweetness and aromatic complexity make it an excellent dessert wine, while its balanced profile allows it to be enjoyed as a refreshing apéritif.
Does Favaios Douro Moscatel contain allergens?
Yes, it contains sulfites, which are common in most wines.
