HISTORICAL IMPORTANCE
The Muscat grape of Alexandria in the Marina Alta, is the variety of muscat that is considered one of the best in the world.
The grapes arrived in the Marina Alta thousands of years ago, as attested by the deposit of Benimaquía, at the top of the Montgó, where the one that is probably the oldest wine producing center of the Iberian Peninsula, dates from the sixth century b.C. and is of Iberian age. However, as with other industries, it was the Romans who intensified production. From the important port of Denia, the wine of the Marina Alta reached Italy and North Africa.
With the passing of the centuries, the export of raisins became very important, leaving wine production in the background. If you want to know more about the importance of the raisin trade in the 19th century in Denia and the process of making the raisin, see this section:
MUSCAT GRATE, AN EXQUISITE GRAPE
The Marina Alta muscat grape is one of the most appreciated in Spain. At the end of August and beginning of September the harvest begins and an activity known as 'estisorar' which consists of cleaning the bunches leaving the larger and healthier grains and discarding the small or damaged ones. The Marina Alta muscat grape stands out for its aromatic power.
Moscatel grape: The moscatel grape is one of the best known table grapes and appreciated for its sweet taste. They are golden yellow with a slight greenish tone and good size. They are elongated grapes with seeds and semi-thick skin. Their flesh is fleshy, crispy and very sweet. It is present in large clusters.
Its cultivation in the Marina Alta is concentrated in Teulada and Benissa.
Grapes in general provide many benefits to our body, they are a fruit rich in vitamin C that in addition to being an antioxidant that delays cellular aging and prevents colds. It is one of the best known fruits that helps prevent certain types of cancers. They are rich in fiber and helps regulate intestinal transit. They are a good source of iron so they also help fight anemia. Because of their calcium content they help prevent osteoporosis and maintain strong bones, as well as enhance the growth of them. They are a good source of potassium that improves muscle recovery after any sport.
desserts
desserts
MUSCAP GRAPE TART
INGREDIENTS:
A layer of frozen puff pastry or refrigerated puff pastry plate.
Half a kilo muscat grapes ripe or very ripe, to taste.
A small glass of cooking cream. Or a 125 cc "brick".
A few drops of vanilla essence.
Four tablespoons dessert of grain sugar.
Icing sugar, if desired, to garnish when serving.
ELABORATION:
Preheat oven to 180 degrees.
Roll out the pastry dough place, on hornear paper, in a round mold.
Fill the mould with the peeled grapes. It can also be made with whole grapes.
Beat a mixture with egg, cream, sweet grape quiche, granulated sugar and vanilla essence.
Bake for about 20 minutes, until the puff pastry is cooked and golden.
Remove from oven and serve garnished with icing sugar on top.