Tinta Francisca is an original variety from the Portuguese north, especially in the Douro Valley, where on the one hand it produces still wines, but on the other hand it also contributes to the cuvée of port wines. The name suggests an origin from France, and in fact Tinta Francisca was once confused with Pinot Noir. However, it turned out that its origin lies in the Douro Valley due to the close family relationships with varieties native to Portugal such as Tinta Ciao or Viosinho. Tinta Francisca tends to sprout in the middle range, ripens late and produces low and unpredictable yields. The variety tolerates stony, barren and dry soils as well as very sunny, hot locations. However, their thin grape skins make them susceptible to downy mildew and putrefactive diseases such as black rot or sour rot. The wines from Tinta Francisca are aromatic and full-bodied, rarely but very concentrated. Nevertheless, individual producers can produce excellent still wines with appropriate work in the vineyard and cellar. Outside Portugal, there are still a few hectares left in South Africa.
This grape variety is also known by the name of:
Tinta Franca, Tinta Franceza, Tinta de Franca
