Tintorera is a synonym for the well-known Alicante Bouschet grape variety. The well-known Alicante Bouschet variety is actually called Alicante Henri Bouschet. The name comes from its creator, as the Alicante Bouschet is a cross from the 19th century. In 1855, Henri Bouschet created various grape varieties at the Domaine de la Calette in Hérault by crossing the Grenache Noir variety with the Petit Bouschet variety. This initially resulted in version one of Alicante Bouschet. Further versions followed in 1865. All were largely identical, but the wine varied considerably from case to case. Towards the end of the 19th century, almost all variants disappeared again - except for one, the Alicante Henri Bouschet. However, it is still not entirely clear whether the remaining version is the original variant or version two. Today there are two very closely related versions in the vineyards. These two variants can be distinguished in that one has colorless flesh, while the other has very hairy leaves. Otherwise, the meat of the Alicante Bouschet is clearly red in color. It sprouts quite early, which puts it at risk of spring frosts in cool regions. However, it matures after a short to medium-long period. It also needs to be kept very short as it can grow quickly. In a dry climate it produces moderate but good quality yields, but does not tolerate wind and is prone to drought stress. It is also susceptible to a whole range of diseases such as downy mildew or bacterial diseases. The Alicante Bouschet is now widespread in the Languedoc, especially in the Hérault, but also in the Jura and the Loire Valley. Large plantings can also be found in Castile-La Mancha in Spain and in Portugal. Italy has minor plantings in Tuscany or Sardinia. There are a few hundred hectares each in Argentina, Chile and California.
