Portuguese viticulture preserves many treasures; Bastardo stands out for its uniqueness. Known internationally as Trousseau, this grape variety of French origin has found centre stage in Portugal, most prominently in the Douro.
It is an early maturing variety, sometimes harvested up to a fortnight before other reds. With a rustic profile and good regional adaptation, this precocity allows it to express itself with intensity even in challenging conditions. It prefers deep, dry and warm soils and adapts well to most types of cultivation.
Bastardo wines are immediately recognisable by their translucent garnet colour, unusual for the region's reds, and an aromatic elegance that seduces from the first contact. Notes of redcurrant, blackberry and other wild berries dominate in their youth, later evolving into more complex notes with nuances of smoke, coffee, dried grass, prunes and tobacco. Interestingly, wood notes can emerge throughout prolonged ageing, even without barrel ageing - a reflection of the richness and depth of the grape variety.
Although often used in blends, Bastardo reveals enormous potential as a single varietal, giving rise to noble, seductive wines with surprising freshness. Its lively acidity and fine tannins give it great gastronomic aptitude and ageing capacity, making it an asset for those who value authentic, expressive and unusual wines.
April is Bastardo month - an excellent opportunity to rediscover this discreet and fascinating grape variety.
