Blue Portugieser
A vine that produces simple wines by the glass and rosé, as well as white herbs to expressive red wines.
Place value
The area under cultivation has declined sharply in Germany over the past 20 years. While it was 5,039 ha in 2001, it has decreased to 2,432 ha by 2021. In Rheinhessen, approx. 979 ha* are currently still planted with this vine. The acreage in Harxheim also reflects the current trend here. While in 2001 2.5 ha* (3.2%) of the planted area were planted with blue Portugieser, the current figure is 1 ha*, i.e. less than 1%.
History
Portugal should not really be associated with the origin of the vine, although this is very obvious. In fact, according to the latest genetic research, the origin of the blue Portuguese is in northeastern Slovenia. The vine is a cross between the cinnamon grape and the green Silvaner. It is mainly found in Central and Southeastern Europe. At 18th century it was mentioned in various publications in Austria. The blue Portugieser came to Rheinhessen during the Prussian-Austrian occupation in the 19th century.
Vinification
Blue Portugieser has relatively low demands on soil and location. However, it is not suitable for heavy or wet soils. If the vine is spared extreme winter frosts, strong vine growth and a high yield are guaranteed. Without volume regulation, yields may well be as high as 12,000 to 20,000 liters per ha. With appropriate yield reduction, excellent red wines can be produced from the Blauer Portugieser.
Pleasure
The Blaue Portugieser presents itself fresh, drinkable with full-bodied aromas. In the glass it shows a bright ruby red. Due to its low tannin content, it is already good to drink in the spring after the harvest. It can be drunk as an uncomplicated wine by the glass, as a cool rose or even as a classic red wine. In its bouquet can be discovered a wide variety of berry scents, from raspberry, strawberry to red currant. Sour cherry is also an aroma found in this wine. The Blaue Portugieser goes well with many dishes, as it discreetly accompanies the food.
As of 31.01.2023 Portugieser German Wine Institute 2023 https://www.deutscheweine.de/wissen/rebsorten/rote-rebsorten/portugieser/
Portugieser Red Vines Rheinhessen 2023 https://www.rheinhessen.de/portugieser
Blue Portuguese Wikipedia 2023 https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blauer_Portugieser
Chamber of Agriculture Rhineland-Palatinate, EU vineyard register, status 2022
