Everything About Malvasia-Preta Grape
"mahl-vah-SEE-ah PREH-tah" 
Malvasia-Preta Description
Origin: Portugal
History: Malvasia Preta, meaning 'Black Malvasia' in Portuguese, is a red grape variety indigenous to Portugal. It is one of the many varieties bearing the Malvasia name, though not necessarily genetically related. According to DNA analysis, it is likely a natural cross between Cayetana Blanca and Alfrocheiro. Historically, Malvasia Preta has been cultivated in various Portuguese wine regions, including the Douro Valley, where it is often found in old vineyards and used in blends to produce both table wines and fortified wines like Port.
Appearance: Small to medium-sized, dark-skinned berries with a deep blue-black hue when ripe.
Growing Traits: Malvasia Preta is a vigorous vine with moderate productivity. It is sensitive to fungal diseases, requiring careful vineyard management. The grape thrives in the diverse terroirs of Portugal, particularly in the Douro Valley's schistous soils and the Dão region's granitic soils. It is often blended with other indigenous varieties to enhance the aromatic profile and contribute to the overall balance of the wine.
Food Pairing Malvasia Preta's light to medium body and balanced acidity make it a versatile companion for various dishes. It pairs well with grilled meats, roasted poultry, and medium-aged cheeses. Its subtle fruit flavors and moderate tannins complement a variety of light to medium-intensity dishes.
Body
Sweetness
Tannin
Acidity
Alcohol
Light to medium-bodied with a balanced structure, offering subtle complexity. Typically dry, though it is also used in fortified wines like Port. Moderate tannins, contributing to a firm and slightly astringent mouthfeel. Medium acidity, providing balance and freshness to the wine. Moderate alcohol content, generally around 12-13%, ensuring balance and drinkability.
Red berries 
Plum 
Spices 
Herbal Malvasia Preta wines are characterized by aromas of red berries and plum, with subtle spicy and herbal notes. On the palate, they are typically dry with moderate tannins and medium acidity, offering a balanced and approachable profile. When used in fortified wines like Port, it contributes to the wine's complexity and depth.
Regions
![[object Object] Region](/regions/portugal.png)
Portugal
•Douro
•Dão
•Beira Interior
•Península de Setúbal
Notable Wines and Producers
Douro Red Blends
•Real Companhia Velha
•Quinta do Crasto
Dão Red Blends
•Pedra Cancela
•Quinta dos Roques
Malvasia-Preta FAQ
Portugal
Malvasia-Preta has a body level of 2 out of 5. Which means that Malvasia-Preta is Moderate to Light bodied.
Malvasia-Preta has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Malvasia-Preta is Dry.
Portugal
Malvasia-Preta is grown in Portugal (Douro, Dão, Beira Interior, Península de Setúbal).
Malvasia Preta wines are characterized by aromas of red berries and plum, with subtle spicy and herbal notes. On the palate, they are typically dry with moderate tannins and medium acidity, offering a balanced and approachable profile. When used in fortified wines like Port, it contributes to the wine's complexity and depth.
Malvasia Preta's light to medium body and balanced acidity make it a versatile companion for various dishes. It pairs well with grilled meats, roasted poultry, and medium-aged cheeses. Its subtle fruit flavors and moderate tannins complement a variety of light to medium-intensity dishes.
Malvasia Preta wines are characterized by aromas of red berries and plum, with subtle spicy and herbal notes. On the palate, they are typically dry with moderate tannins and medium acidity, offering a balanced and approachable profile. When used in fortified wines like Port, it contributes to the wine's complexity and depth.