Despite being the most widely grown and exclusive grape variety of the Douro region, it is not possible to determine exactly when it appeared. It is only officially described in 1940 and although Gyrão (1822) and Villa Maior (1866) speak of a Tinta Franca, it is not possible to verify whether it is the same variety.

Morphology

It may be ampelographically described in the following manner: cottony white buds with a crimson rims, young leaves are copper coloured with medium to strong antocianic pigmentation, red streaks on the dorsal side of the shoot; the adult leaf is medium sized with 3 lobes, lightly marked upper sinuses, dark green flat leaf blades that are slightly irregular at the periphery with pronounced wrinkles and short convex points. Petiole sinuses with slightly overlapping lobes. Medium sized and compact bunches. Short peduncles with strong lignification. Medium sized, rounded and uniform blueish-black berries with bloom, firm colourless pulp that is not particularly juicy or distinctive in taste.

Enological value

lthough not as concentrated as the Touriga Nacional, the wine is robust with good colouration and structure, intense aromas with hints of red fruits, blackberry and, sometimes, rock-rose. It requires dry and hot climates in order to develop its full potential.