Encruzado

Variety grown mainly in Dão (Portugal). The cluster is medium-small and compact. The medium, slightly oval berry is difficult to detach from the stem. This variety of high vigour has a semi-upright growth habit and a medium budburst period as well as an average yield. Also average is the susceptibility to downy and powdery mildew and botrytis. The ripening period is early (same as Fernão Pires). It produces elegant and highly complex wines, with medium acidity and high quality.