The Galego Dourado is now again an important grape variety in the Carcavelos and Colares regions near Lisbon and plays an important role in the production of the fortified wines of Carcavelos. And this despite the fact that there are not even ten hectares of this grape variety in production. Originally it was almost extinct. Only a rescue program by the National Center for Agricultural Economics in Oeiras contributed significantly to survival. Saplings imported from South Africa were initially introduced as Pedro Ximénez, but in fact the two varieties have nothing in common. The variety is fertile and vigorous, but only produces moderate yields. It sprouts early, but also ripens early. The Galego Dourado is susceptible to both powdery mildew and downy mildew, to trickling and, unfortunately, especially to black or sour rot. When ripe well, the wines are round, harmonious and full-bodied with fine, aromatic fruit. Now that the Galego Dourado has become at home again, it is now fighting against the expanding city that is reaching for the vineyards around Lisbon.
This grape variety is also known by the name of:
Pedro Luis
