How to Compare Portuguese Grape Varieties to Your Favorite U.S. Varieties

Touriga Nacional: Similar to Cabernet Sauvignon

When I first moved to Portugal, entering wine shops sent me into a bit of a panic. There were bottles of red, white, and rose lining the walls calling out to me--pick me, pick me. Taking the nicely labeled bottles into my hands, I would study the front label: Tinto. Got it--red. The fear of the unknown, however, awaited me on the back of the back label: Touriga Nacional. Castelão. Touriga Franca.

What?! What the hell does that mean? I never knew what I was getting when I bought wines because the Portuguese grape varieties differed so. Over time, I learned the flavor profiles. I can tell you that the Portuguese grapes pack all that we love in the varieties we know so well and a lot more! They are chock full of unknown surprises, and I love them!

Nonetheless, to begin a proper journey into the world of Portuguese grapes, one must know how the local varieties compare to the favored ones in your home market--or with your personal taste preferences.

Matching U.S. grape varieties with Portuguese grape varieties requires understanding both their flavor profiles, uses in wine production, and growing conditions. While some U.S. varieties are directly grown in Portugal, others have Portuguese analogs with similar characteristics. Here's a guide to making these matches. Enjoy!

1. Cabernet Sauvignon (U.S.) → Touriga Nacional (Portugal)

   • Similarity: Both are bold, tannic, and deeply structured red grapes.

   • Profile: Touriga Nacional, like Cabernet Sauvignon, features dark fruit flavors (blackberry, plum), floral notes, and firm tannins.

   • Use: Frequently blended, Touriga Nacional is the backbone of many red wines and fortified Port.

2. Zinfandel (U.S.) → Castelão (Portugal)

   • Similarity: Both are fruit-forward, spicy, and versatile.

   • Profile: Castelão offers flavors of red berries, black fruit, and pepper, akin to Zinfandel’s jammy, spicy nature.

   • Use: Castelão is used in robust reds and blends.

3. Pinot Noir (U.S.) → Baga (Portugal)

   • Similarity: Both produce wines with high acidity and finesse, capable of aging.

   • Profile: Baga is more tannic than Pinot Noir but shares earthy, red fruit, and floral characteristics.

   • Use: Baga is often used in elegant, complex wines from Bairrada.

4. Chardonnay (U.S.) → Arinto (Portugal)

   • Similarity: Both are adaptable white grapes with bright acidity and citrus notes.

   • Profile: Arinto has zesty lime and lemon flavors, with some wines showing mineral complexity, similar to unoaked Chardonnay.

   • Use: Often used in fresh, vibrant whites and sparkling wines.

5. Merlot (U.S.) → Alicante Bouschet (Portugal)

   • Similarity: Both are approachable, soft, and fruity.

   • Profile: Alicante Bouschet is known for its rich red fruit, lush texture, and deep color, echoing Merlot's characteristics.

   • Use: Common in blends and stand-alone wines.

6. Syrah (U.S.) → Trincadeira (Portugal)

   • Similarity: Both have spicy, earthy, and savory qualities.

   • Profile: Trincadeira (also known as Tinta Amarela) offers flavors of dark berries, herbs, and pepper, reminiscent of Syrah’s peppery profile.

   • Use: Widely used in Alentejo blends.

7. Sauvignon Blanc (U.S.) → Alvarinho (Portugal)

   • Similarity: Both are aromatic white grapes with crisp acidity and tropical fruit notes.

   • Profile: Alvarinho (Albariño in Spain) features citrus, stone fruit, and floral characteristics similar to Sauvignon Blanc.

   • Use: Known for vibrant, refreshing whites from the Vinho Verde region.

8. Petite Sirah (U.S.) → Tinta Roriz (Portugal)

   • Similarity: Both are bold, tannic, and deeply colored.

   • Profile: Tinta Roriz (Tempranillo) has flavors of black fruit, leather, and spice, akin to the dark, powerful style of Petite Sirah.

   • Use: Tinta Roriz is a key component of Douro blends and Port wines.