Arinto de Bucelas

Arinto de Bucelas is a white wine grape variety from Portugal that is primarily used to make crisp and mineral-driven wines. It is a highly versatile grape variety that produces wines with a range of aromas, tastes and styles.

Arinto de Bucelas grapevines produce very compact bunches of small, thick-skinned berries that are yellow or green in colour. Its wines have a range of aromas and taste profiles, including notes of melon, lemon, lime and green apple. The wines are well-structured, with a high acidity and a mineral finish.

Arinto de Bucelas is grown primarily in the Portuguese region of Bucelas, and was first mentioned under the name Arinto in 1712 by Vicêncio Alarte. The variety is also grown in other regions of Portugal, such as the Douro Valley. From the area around Lisboa it first expanded north to Bairrada and then to the Vinho Verde region. Arinto de Bucelas is a relatively easy grape variety to grow, as it is resistant to many vine diseases and pests. It is attractive to leafhoppers though, which might damage the leaves and sometimes it is susceptible to botrytis bunch rot. The grape does best in a cool climate with ample sunshine and well-drained soil. When it comes to winemaking, the grape is best vinified in stainless steel tanks, which helps to preserve its high acidity and mineral character. In Bucelas, Arinto de Bucelas wines tend to be light and crisp, with a high acidity and notes of lemon and lime. In other regions, such as the Douro Valley, the wines tend to be fuller-bodied and have more tropical fruit aromas and flavours. Arinto de Bucelas wines pair well with a variety of dishes, such as seafood, salads, light pasta dishes and white meats. The high acidity of the wines makes them a great choice for dishes with creamy sauces or rich flavours.

Arinto de Bucelas is sometimes referred to as “the Portuguese Chablis” due to its similarity to the Chablis style of white wine from France.