The Alfrocheiro
Grape
Indigenous to Portugal, notably grown in the Dão and Alentejo regions, Alfrocheiro is a red grape variety known for producing deeply colored wines with high tannin levels and acidity. These wines are aromatic, showcasing flavors of ripe black fruits, berries, and spices, and are appreciated for their complexity and intensity, both in blends and as varietal wines.
Alfrocheiro
Grape History
Alfrocheiro is a red wine grape variety that is native to Portugal, specifically the Dão region. This grape is known for producing wines that are aromatic, structured, and age-worthy. Alfrocheiro is often used in blending, particularly in the production of Dão wines.
History:
Alfrocheiro has a long history in Portugal, with records dating back to the 15th century. The exact origins of this grape are somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the Dão region of Portugal. Alfrocheiro has traditionally been used as a blending grape, adding complexity and structure to wines produced in the Dão region.
Interesting Facts:
- Alfrocheiro grapes are known for their thick skins, which contribute to the rich color and tannins found in wines made from this grape.
- Wines made from Alfrocheiro are often described as having notes of dark fruits, spice, and floral aromas.
- Alfrocheiro is often compared to the more widely known grape variety, Syrah, due to its bold flavor profile and aging potential.
Where it is Grown:
Alfrocheiro is primarily grown in the Dão region of Portugal, where it thrives in the region's granitic soils and cool climate. This grape variety is also grown in other regions of Portugal, such as the Alentejo and Bairrada regions, where it is used in blending with other grape varieties to create diverse and complex wines.
Wines it Goes In:
Alfrocheiro is often used in blends with other indigenous grape varieties in Portugal, such as Touriga Nacional and Tinta Roriz. These blends result in wines that are full-bodied, aromatic, and age-worthy. Alfrocheiro is also occasionally used as a single-varietal wine, showcasing the unique characteristics of this grape.
Projected Future:
As interest in indigenous grape varieties and regional wines continues to grow, Alfrocheiro stands to gain more recognition in the global wine market. The unique flavor profile and aging potential of wines made from Alfrocheiro make them appealing to wine enthusiasts looking for something distinctive and sophisticated. With advancements in viticulture and winemaking techniques, the future looks bright for Alfrocheiro as it continues to establish itself as a key player in the world of Portuguese wines.
Introduction
Hello, my name is Franklin Laurel - Welcome!
I started drinking wine in 1992 when I was in my early twenties and recently married. Like many other young Southern Californians, it started out with White Zinfandel. As we were a couple of young DINKs just beginning life together, and on a budget, our go-to-wine was Sutter Home White Zinfandel, which tasted a lot like wine coolers and probably cost at the time $2.49. If we really were going to splurge, we would step it up and buy Beringer White Zinfandel for $2.99. Those were the days....
After a little time, we decided to get fancy. We stepped up our game and bought some wonderful 2-Buck Chuck from Trader Joe's. The Charles Shaw (Trader Joe's Exclusive Label) wine, also known as 2-Buck-Chuck extended our pallet into Reds for only $1.99 a bottle. Over the years we continued to grow in our understanding of wine (finally ran into some good wine) and we slowly kept buying better and better bottles.
Our first wine club purchase was from Kenwood's Vineyards, in Kenwood, California located in Sonoma Valley, right next to the famous Napa Valley. I began to learn about tobacco leather, and earthiness, and lots of other strange terminology when tasting their signature Zinfandels (of the red variety). So that is how it all began.
Fast forward a couple decades, and we have been members of five different wine clubs, and now have a passion for California's red wines. My favorite by far is Cabernet Sauvignon, while my wife fancies a good Syrah, Malbec, or Merlot - but she also loves the smell of a wine barrel room, which is all about the notes of Cabernet Sauvignon.
As I come across great wine resources and useful information that I find in planning my own wine trips, I will share here for anyone that might stumble across my humble website.
Cheers! - Franklin Laurel