In the past, this grape variety dominated the Dão region and also played an important role in the Douro before the phylloxera outbreak, so much so that today, both regions claim it as their own.

It is a noble and highly esteemed variety in Portugal—arguably the most celebrated in the country—and is now widely planted in Alentejo, Lisbon, Bairrada, Setúbal, Tejo, Algarve, and even the Azores. Its thick skin, rich in coloring compounds, allows for the production of wines with intense, deep colors. One of its trademarks is the abundance of primary aromas, offering both floral and fruity notes that are always vivid and explosive. Although it is low yielding, it can produce well-balanced wines with good alcohol content and excellent aging potential.

Associated Aromas

Berries

Violette

Floral