Hi everyone! Today, I’m going to talk about a grape that has been one of the top choices for Portuguese winemakers: Alicante Bouschet.
This is a red grape variety that has its roots in France, but is widely cultivated in Portugal, especially in the Alentejo and Douro regions. It is known for its thick and dark skin, and is a teinturier grape, which means that it produces rich and deep red wines.
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From France to Portugal and Beyond: The Fascinating History of Alicante Bouschet
Alicante Bouschet has an interesting history. It was created by the French botanist Henri Bouschet in the mid-19th century by crossing the Grenache and Petit Bouschet grapes. The grape quickly became popular in France, but soon spread to other countries, including Portugal, where it adapted well to the climate and soil.
Today, Alicante Bouschet is widely used in Portugal, especially in blended wines. It adds color, body, and flavor to wines, as well as being an excellent option for blends.
But Alicante Bouschet is not only used in Portugal. It is cultivated in many countries around the world, including Spain, the United States, Australia, and Argentina. It is a versatile grape and adapts well to different climates and soils.
So, what is the flavor profile of Alicante Bouschet? Well, wines produced with this grape tend to be rich, full-bodied, and intense. They have notes of dark fruits such as blackberry and plum, and can present hints of spices and tobacco. These wines usually age well and can be kept for many years.
Intense Flavors and Rich Colors: Discovering the Wonders of Wines Made with Alicante Bouschet
Alicante Bouschet also has some interesting curiosities. For example, it is one of the few red grapes that has pulp and juice with red color. This means that wines made with this grape are naturally intense in color and have a good structure.
So, if you are a wine lover, you should definitely try a wine made with Alicante Bouschet. And if you want to discover more about this grape and other varieties grown in Portugal, do not hesitate to contact me for a fun and delicious wine tourism adventure!