The Arinto or Arinto de Bucelas is one of the oldest grape varieties in Portugal. The name suggests that it comes from the Bucelas region north of Lisbon. It was mentioned as early as 1712. Because of its ability to adapt well to different climatic conditions, the late-sprouting and late-ripening variety is widespread in Portugal, especially in the Bairrada and Vinho Verde regions. You can also find the color mutation Arinto Roxo, which means purple. It is closely related to another long-established grape variety in Portugal, Trajadura. The Arinto de Bucelas produces good yields with compact grapes and small berries. Unfortunately, grasshoppers love it and damage the leaves, otherwise it is occasionally susceptible to sour rot. It can preserve its acidity well even under warm conditions, so that the wines are mostly citrus-fresh and lively. The Arinto can be produced as a single variety, but it is often blended with other varieties, such as Loureiro or Trajadura. The distribution of this variety is limited to Portugal.
This grape variety is also known by the name of:
Asal Galego, Asal Espanhol, Arintho, Arinto Cercial, Arinto Cachudo, Arinto De Bucelas, Arinto Galego, Arinto D'Anadia, Assario Branco, Azal Galego, Azal Espanhol, Cerceal, Branco Espanhol, Chapeludo, Pe De Perdiz Branco, Pederna, Pedernao, Pedrena, Val De Arintho, Terrantez Da Terceira
