Portugieser

Portrait

Blauer Portugieser is a red variety of uncertain origin that probably comes from Austria or the Danube region; the name points to Portugal but has no documented link. In Germany it is grown mainly in Pfalz and Rheinhessen, where it was formerly much more widespread. Further plantings exist in Austria, Hungary and Romania.

The vine buds early and ripens early; it is vigorous and productive and at high yields gives thin wines. The wines are pale, fruity with cherry, strawberry and plum, with low tannin and mild acidity. The variety is often made as Weissherbst, rosé or a young-drinking red.

Portugieser goes with cold platters, light meat dishes and pasta.