Alicante Bouschet was created in France in the 1860s by viticulturist Henri Bouschet, who crossed Grenache with Petit Bouschet to develop a grape resilient to disease and rich in pigment. Initially planted throughout France after phylloxera devastated vineyards, it became a workhorse grape, often used to deepen the color of lighter reds. Over time, its fortunes shifted south and west, thriving in Portugal’s sun-drenched Alentejo and playing a key role in robust Iberian reds. Today, Alicante Bouschet is celebrated for its ability to produce structured, age-worthy wines and is gaining respect among adventurous wine drinkers.
Alicante Bouschet
Region: Europe
Alicante Bouschet is a unique red grape famous for its deeply colored juice—a rarity in the wine world. Most red wines get their hue from grape skins, but Alicante Bouschet is a teinturier, meaning its flesh is also red. Predominantly grown in Portugal’s Alentejo region and southern France, this grape produces robust wines with intense color, lush fruit, and plenty of body. It’s a favorite for adding richness and color intensity to blends, but increasingly shines solo for its bold personality.
Tasting Notes
Taste Profile
- Fairly Dry
- Full Body
- Moderate Tannins
- Moderate Acidity
- Approximately 14%
The History of Alicante Bouschet
FAQs About Alicante Bouschet
What makes Alicante Bouschet different from most red grapes?
Its pulp is red as well as its skin, making it a teinturier and giving its wines extraordinary depth of color.
Where is Alicante Bouschet most widely grown?
Portugal’s Alentejo region is the modern stronghold, though it’s also found in parts of southern France and scattered around the globe.
Is Alicante Bouschet best as a blend or single-varietal wine?
It excels in both, adding color and intensity to blends and producing plush, fruit-driven single varietals when carefully made.
What styles of wine are typical with Alicante Bouschet?
Expect full-bodied reds with rich fruit, moderate tannins, and sometimes earthy, spicy complexity—especially with cellaring.
Should Alicante Bouschet be aged or drunk young?
While youthful bottlings showcase lively fruit, quality examples from top producers are well worth cellaring for extra depth and complexity.