Alicante Bouschet

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  Alicante Bouschet grapes

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  Map of Alentejo region

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  Portuguese Alentejo wine

Alicante Bouschet

Alicante Bouschet is a red wine grape variety that is notable for its deep color and high tannin content. It is one of the few teinturier varieties, meaning that its flesh and juice are also red, not just the skin. This characteristic makes it particularly valuable for blending purposes, as it can add color and body to wines made from other grape varieties.

History

Alicante Bouschet was created in France in the mid-19th century by Henri Bouschet, who crossed Petit Bouschet with Grenache. The grape gained popularity due to its ability to produce deeply colored wines and its high yield. It was widely planted in France, particularly in the Languedoc-Roussillon region, and later spread to other wine-producing countries.

Viticulture

Alicante Bouschet is a vigorous vine that can produce high yields. It is well-suited to warm climates and is resistant to many common vine diseases. The grape is often used in blending to enhance the color and structure of wines. It is typically harvested later in the season, allowing it to develop full ripeness and concentration.

Wine Characteristics

Wines made from Alicante Bouschet are known for their deep, dark color and full body. They often exhibit flavors of dark fruits such as blackberry and plum, along with notes of spice and chocolate. The wines can be quite tannic, which allows them to age well. Alicante Bouschet is often blended with other varieties to add color and complexity to the final wine.

Regions

While Alicante Bouschet originated in France, it is now grown in several other countries. In Portugal, it is a key component of many red blends, particularly in the Alentejo region. It is also grown in Spain, Italy, and the United States, particularly in California.

Related Pages

• Teinturier
• Grenache
• Languedoc-Roussillon
• Alentejo
• Blending (wine)