Muscat of Alexandria

Muscat of Alexandria is an ancient white grape variety believed to have originated in North Africa, likely around the city of Alexandria in Egypt. It is one of the oldest members of the Muscat family and is less widely used than Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains, although it remains important in several warm-climate wine regions. Today, it is grown in parts of southern France, particularly in the Languedoc-Roussillon, as well as across the Mediterranean.

This grape is highly versatile and can be used to produce a range of wine styles, from dry to sweet. In southern France, Muscat of Alexandria is often used in the production of vins doux naturels, where its naturally high sugar levels and aromatic intensity are well suited to sweet wine styles. When harvested earlier, before full sugar development, it can produce drier wines with a fresher, lighter profile. When harvested later, at full ripeness, it yields richer, sweeter wines with greater concentration.

Aromatically, Muscat of Alexandria is expressive, offering notes of orange blossom, grape, citrus, and sometimes tropical fruit. Dry styles tend to be light and refreshing, while sweeter versions are fuller-bodied and more opulent. These wines pair well with a variety of dishes, from light appetisers and seafood in their drier form to desserts and fruit-based dishes when produced in sweeter styles.