oscato di Scanzo is a rare, choice wine that can be produced only following strict rules and in the best vineyards of the town of Scanzorosciate, located in the province of Bergamo. It is a red passito wine.
There is strong evidence that Roman legions first introduced Moscato grapes in the territories of Bergamo after been rewarded with land in return for successfully chasing out the Gauls from the area. Later, Moscato di Scanzo was quite popular during the Renaissance, especially among the noble families of Milan and Venice. But it was also apprecciated by Russian czars and the gourmet wine-lovers of Paris, London and Buenos Aires.
This is a rare wine not only by virtue of its limited production, but also because of the special techniques required to obtain its unique qualities: the grapes are chosen with great care and are dried for at least 21 days - and sometimes until the Christmas season - on special racks placed in dry, ventilated rooms. After vinification it is aged for at least two years.
Moscato di Scanzo has a more or less intense ruby red color with hues of cherry and pomegranate reflections. It is full-bodied and has an intense, ethereal aroma, and tinges of withered rose, sage, acacia honey, cinnamon, clove, and licorice. Its flavor is persistent, decidedly sweet, velvety, and generous.
