
Carrega Branco
Carrega Branco is a white grape variety cultivated in the Douro Demarcated Region (RDD), with around 248.4 hectares planted, representing approximately 0.6% of the region's total vineyard area. It produces wines with low acidity and alcohol levels, offering a simple, slightly fruity aroma and a mildly bitter taste with low complexity. The vine itself has medium vigor, with medium-sized, pentagonal leaves and a moderate density of hair-like projections on the underside.
The wine has a citrine color with simple, slightly fruity aromas. On the palate, it is mildly bitter, with a slight acidity and low complexity, resulting in an overall regular qualitative potential.
Carrega Branco is grown primarily in the Douro Valley, contributing to DOC Trás-os-Montes wines. Its cultivation is limited, making it a less common grape variety in the region. It is mostly used in blends due to its lower quality potential, scoring below 12/20 in sensory evaluations.
Despite its limited use, Carrega Branco adds a simple, fresh touch to blends and offers a glimpse into the more obscure, traditional varieties of the Douro region.