Tinta Barroca

Grape variety	Tinta Barroca
Synonyms	Tinta Barocca
Grape colour	Red grape
Characteristics of the wine	Tinta Barroca produces wines of bold, robust character. The grape's high sugar content lends itself to producing wines with significant alcohol levels. On the palate, expect a full-bodied experience with notes of ripe cherries, plums, and a hint of chocolate. While it's seldom used as a single-variety wine, Tinta Barroca shines as a blending grape, particularly in the production of Port and fortified wines. In South Africa, it's often paired with Pinotage to create unique, regionally-inspired blends.
History	Hailing from the sun-drenched vineyards of Portugal, Tinta Barroca is a red grape variety with a rich and storied past. Originally cultivated in the Douro Valley, it quickly became a cornerstone in the production of Portugal's famed Port wines. Over the centuries, Tinta Barroca has spread to other wine regions around the globe, including South Africa, where it has found a second home in the vineyards of the Western Cape.
Ampelographic features	Known for its large, lobed leaves and medium-sized, black-skinned berries, Tinta Barroca is well-suited to the warm climates of Portugal and South Africa. The vine is highly productive and ripens early, making it a reliable choice for wine producers. Its thick skins help protect against common vine diseases.