Alicante Bouschet is a distinguished grape variety originally from France but now grown in other parts of the world as well. Known for its deep ruby colouring and overtly fruity yet complex tastes, this variety has been recognised and valued by winemakers and aficionados since the 19th century.
The grape has a skin so thick that it is naturally high in tannins, presenting a full-bodied wine packed with structure and depth. When produced correctly, wines from Alicante Bouschet can age gracefully, developing further character and complexity over time. Tasting notes frequently refer to berry flavours, notably blackberry and cherry, accompanied by peppery notes and hints of tarry undertones.
Originating from a crossbreeding between Petit Bouschet and Grenache, the grape has a characteristically substantial pigmentation that even pervades its flesh – a rare trait amongst other wine grape varieties that are usually pale in their pulp. This attribute allowed the grape to be mainly utilised as a colouring agent in blends in the past, particularly during the Prohibition era in the U.S.
Today, Alicante Bouschet is gaining prominence as a standalone variety in particular regions, most notably Portugal's Alentejo wine region. Here, it has been championed for its ability to withstand the arid and hot climate due to its robust nature and thick skin. The end result is a range of noteworthy wines celebrated for their intensity and depth.
From a once blending component to a noble single-varietal wine, Alicante Bouschet's journey is an extraordinary story within the realm of viticulture. The emphasis placed on this grape, especially in recent years, demonstrates a reverence for its distinctive, complex character, a testament to the elegance and depth it is capable of offering.
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