Alfrocheiro, one of the most promising, if not particularly widely planted (a national total of 1,492 ha/3,687 acres), red grapes in the dão region of portugal. Alfrocheiro’s well constructed blackberry- and strawberry-flavoured wines have such appeal that it can also be found in the vineyards of alentejo, tejo, and bairrada now. It is very susceptible to oïdium and grey rot and is not therefore as popular with growers as with winemakers. However, it yields reasonably well, ripens early, and produces deep-coloured wines with good alcohol and acid balance. It is often referred to as Alfrocheiro Preto (‘black Alfrocheiro’). In the Douro it may sometimes be called Tinta Bastardinha.
