Portugieser

Portugieser is a red wine grape variety that is widely grown in Austria and Germany. Some people may recall the name of a country when they see this name. Yes, it's Portugal. It is said that this variety was transplanted from northern Portugal to a certain farm in Austria in the late 1700s, and then spread to Germany in the 1800s.

In Austria, it is mainly grown in Burgenland, but also in parts of Lower Austria. In Germany, it is grown in Rheinhessen, the Palatinate and Baden. In these regions Portuguese wine is common and is also grown further east in Central and Eastern European countries such as Hungary, Slovakia, Romania and Croatia.

The Portugieser grapes are medium-sized and the berries are large and deep purple in colour. This variety ripens early and does well in relatively low temperatures. The short growing season allows for easy maturation in cooler climates and reduces the risk of frost, making it well suited to growing in Austria and Germany.

The tree is strong, It is susceptible to all kinds of fungal diseases (downy mildew, powdery mildew, gray rot). In addition, the yield is abundant, so proper thinning and management are important to produce high-quality wine. The acidity is relatively low, the fruit is rich, and the tannins are mild. This produces many light wines that are enjoyed for their freshness rather than for aging.

Its greatest feature is its fresh and light taste. Its aroma is reminiscent of red fruits such as cherries, raspberries, and strawberries, as well as floral nuances such as violets and roses. It may also have a scent reminiscent of spices such as cloves and licorice.

Although the color is solid, the taste is soft, with moderate tannins and mild acidity. Therefore, it is very easy to drink and has a light impression. Many of these wines can be enjoyed young, and their simple and fresh fruitiness is appealing.

The light flavor of Portugieser is suitable for a casual home party or other table with a variety of dishes. Its mild tannins and acidity go very well with carefully prepared Japanese cuisine.

It goes well with light meat and poultry dishes, pasta and pizza with tomato sauce. It is also recommended to drink it slightly chilled, so it is suitable for summer barbecues, picnics, camping, etc. It is also recommended to pair it with light cheese, salami, antipasto, and other appetizers. Although it is a red wine, the fresh fruitiness and gentle acidity enhance the flavor of the food, allowing you to enjoy the entire meal in a refreshing way.