You have probably heard us mention our award winning wine, the Alicante Bouschet a few times. We love this wine varietal not only for its great dark berry flavors, but also for its rich history.
The Alicante Bouschet grape varietal was cultivated by Henri Bouschet in 1866. It is a crossing of Petite Bouschet and Grenache. It was originally used as a blender for such wines as Aramon. It also has a natural resistance to powdery mildew, which with other varieties, has devastated crops.
During Prohibition, this grape was popular because it’s thick skin made it easy to transport. It also has a very juicy flesh, with which winemakers could make double the amount of wine with, compared to other varieties.
Another unique attribute of this grape, is that both the skin and the juice of it are colored. With most red wine, you get the color from the skin only, because the juice is clear. The French call these type of grapes teinturier, or dyers.
It is definitely a versatile and fun grape, that makes a wonderful wine. If you would like to try it for yourself, visit our tasting room. It is open on weekends from 12 p.m. to 4p.m. or by appointment.
Cheers!
