Portugieser
Historical, though shady
The source of this variety source is not entirely understood.
According to the story, these shimmering blue berries get their name because they found their way to Austria in 1772 from the historic Portuguese city of Porto.
Historical documents relate that “The Earl of Fries was the Austrian emissary in various countries, including in Portugal. He had vineyards on his property in Vöslau. In 1772, he brought varieties from abroad to Vöslau, allowing them to grow in his vineyard.”
Curiously, however, this vine is completely unknown in Portugal, and so it is suspected to have come from Austria or Hungary.
Portugieser is characterized by its low demands in terms of climate and soil conditions. It also reliably produces high yields. Planted on around 4,500 hectares, this vine is one of the most important red wine grape varieties in Germany today.
