The Castelao grape is commonly found in Portugal where it is also known as Periquita. Wines made here are often rustic in nature, deeply coloured, with plenty of tannins giving good structure and have a dominant flavour of strawberries. The second most widely planted variety in Portugal, wine styles encountered may be either red, rosé, fortified or sparkling. The finest, more concentrated wines are suitable for ageing in oak and are often blended with other Portuguese varieties. The lighter, more fruity, wines are intended for drinking young and fresh.
