Alicante Bouschet

Alicante Bouschet is a red wine grape variety that is known for its rich and intense colour. It is believed to have originated in France in the late 19th century, specifically in the region of Languedoc. The grape is a cross between Petit Bouschet and Grenache, and it was created to produce wine with a deep red colour. Alicante Bouschet is known for its high tannin levels, which give the wine a robust and full-bodied character.

In terms of taste profile, Alicante Bouschet wines are often described as bold and powerful. They have a strong presence of dark fruit flavours like blackberry and black cherry, along with hints of spice and earthiness. The wines are typically high in alcohol content and have a firm tannic structure. The combination of these characteristics makes Alicante Bouschet wines suitable for aging, as they tend to develop complexity and depth over time.

While Alicante Bouschet is not as widely planted as other grape varieties, it can be found in several countries around the world. Portugal is one of the best countries for Alicante Bouschet, particularly in the Alentejo region where it is used to produce intense and flavourful red wines. Spain, specifically in the regions of Valencia and Murcia, also cultivates Alicante Bouschet grapes.