RARE GRAPE VARIETAL RESOURCE

Alfrocheiro Preto is a red Portuguese wine grape variety^[1] planted primarily in the Dão DOC and Alentejano VR. The grape is known for the deep coloring it can add to wine blends.^[2] (Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alfrocheiro_Preto)

Due to its high susceptibility to fungal diseases (particularly powdery mildew and grey rot), Alfrocheiro is most often found in winery-owned vineyards rather than those of contract growers. (Source: https://www.wine-searcher.com/grape-696-alfrocheiro-preto)

Alfrocheiro is my favorite grape variety, and I’ve always found it fascinating for several reasons. Its story in Portugal is really unique: after the phylloxera crisis, Alfrocheiro emerged as a key grape in the Dão region, and today it's seen as one of the country’s heritage varieties. In Portugal, specialy on Dão, Alfrocheiro is respected for its resilience and the legacy it carries—sometimes people have stories of grandparents tending to these vines, passing on that knowledge and tradition.

Why do I love Alfrocheiro? For growers, it offers early ripening, which is a real advantage in avoiding autumn rains and certain diseases. However, it’s not an easy grape to handle—it requires careful attention in the vineyard because it's susceptible to mildew. That challenge is part of what makes it rewarding; the extra effort pays off with both the vines and the wine.

What truly sets Alfrocheiro apart, in my view, is its personality. The wines have a beautiful, deep color and aromas that remind me of wild berries and even a touch of spice. They’re never heavy-handed, just bright, fresh, and full of character. Alfrocheiro brings lovely acidity and balance, making wines that are both approachable when young and capable of aging well. It’s often used in blends, but varietal Alfrocheiro is what really lets the grape express itself, channeling both tradition and innovation.

For anyone interested in Portuguese wine, Alfrocheiro represents a link between past and present. It’s a grape that tells the story of the land, the people, and the seasons—subtle but unforgettable.

Cheers,

Rui Magro Correia
🌐 linkedin.com/in/ruimagrocorreia

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