Ramisco

Ramisco is a red wine grape variety that is indigenous to Portugal. It is primarily grown in the Colares DOC region, where it is used to produce varietal wines. Ramisco wines are known for their high acidity and tannin levels, which contribute to their longevity and aging potential.

History

The origins of the Ramisco grape are not well documented, but it is believed to have been cultivated in Portugal for centuries. The grape is closely associated with the Colares region, where it has been grown on the sandy soils of the coastal vineyards since at least the 19th century.

Viticulture

Ramisco is a late-ripening variety that requires a long growing season to fully mature. The grape is highly resistant to phylloxera, a pest that devastated many European vineyards in the late 19th century. This resistance is attributed to the sandy soils of Colares, where the vines are planted directly in the sand without the use of rootstocks.

Wine production

Ramisco wines are typically full-bodied and rich in tannins, with a high acidity that contributes to their aging potential. The wines often have complex flavors of red fruit, earth, and spice, with a distinctive mineral character derived from the sandy soils of Colares.

Food pairing

Due to their high acidity and tannin levels, Ramisco wines are well-suited to pairing with rich, fatty foods. They are often served with traditional Portuguese dishes such as Bacalhau (salted cod) and Cozido à Portuguesa (Portuguese stew).

See also

• List of Portuguese grape varieties
• Portuguese wine
• Colares DOC