Castelão (grape)

A Portuguese red wine grape variety

Castelão

Castelão grapes on the vine

Castelão, also known as Periquita, is a red wine grape variety widely grown in Portugal. It is one of the most important grape varieties in the country, particularly in the regions of Lisbon, Tejo, and Alentejo.

Characteristics

Castelão is known for its ability to produce wines with good tannin structure and aging potential. The grape typically produces wines with a deep color and flavors of red fruits, such as strawberry and raspberry, along with earthy and spicy notes. The wines can be quite robust and are often blended with other varieties to balance their tannins and acidity.

Viticulture

Vineyard where Castelão grapes are grown

The Castelão grape thrives in warm climates and is well-suited to the sandy and clay soils found in many Portuguese wine regions. It is a hardy variety that can withstand drought conditions, making it a reliable choice for growers in the Mediterranean climate of Portugal.

Wine Regions

Castelão is predominantly grown in the following Portuguese wine regions:

• Lisbon: Known for producing wines with a lighter body and fresh fruit flavors.
• Tejo: Wines from this region often exhibit a balance of fruit and earthy characteristics.
• Alentejo: Castelão wines from Alentejo are typically fuller-bodied with more pronounced tannins.

Winemaking

In winemaking, Castelão is often blended with other grape varieties such as Aragonez (also known as Tempranillo) and Trincadeira to create complex and balanced wines. The grape's natural acidity and tannin structure make it suitable for both young wines and those intended for aging.

Related pages

• Portuguese wine
• Red wine
• Grape varieties