Fernão Pires is a long-established grape variety in Portugal and is more native to the north than the south of the country. Its origin was long thought to be in the Tejo, but modern research suggests that the variety was first planted in Bairrada. It was mentioned in writing as early as the 18th century, but its origins certainly go back even further. The Fernão Pires sprouts early and ripens quite early, produces high yields under good conditions due to its vigorous growth and should therefore be trained strictly and briefly if you are looking for quality. It is very sensitive to water stress, which can cause it to drop its leaves and develop shrunken berries. Determining the right time to harvest is also very important because, like Gewürztraminer, it tends to lose its acidity very quickly towards the end of ripeness, which can lead to clumsy and broad wines. Because it is otherwise easy to cultivate, it is very popular in northern and central Portugal. Its only problem is the sometimes lack of freshness and the susceptibility of the wines to rapid oxidation. The wines of Fernão Pires should therefore be drunk young. The variety is approved in many regions of Portugal: in Bairrada, Douro, Tejo, Alentejo, Lisboa or Peninsula de Setúbal. It is also quite widespread in central and southern Spain. Outside the Iberian Peninsula, there are minor plantings in South Africa, California and Australia.
This grape variety is also known by the name of:
Camarate, Fernão Pires do Beco, Fernão Pires de Colares, Fernão Pires de Beco, Gaeiro, Gaieiro, Molinha, Fernam Pires, Fernan Piriz, Fernão Pirão, Molinho, Maria Gomes, Torrontes
