The grape variety Tinto Cão

Tinto Cão is a distinguished red grape variety native to Portugal, particularly renowned within the Douro Valley. This grape is valued for its ability to produce structured and age-worthy wines, often contributing elegance and complexity to blends, notably in Port production as well as dry reds. Aromatically, Tinto Cão offers a bouquet of wild berries, violet, and subtle herbal nuances, underpinned by hints of spice and earth. On the palate, its wines are marked by refined tannins, vibrant acidity, and flavors of dark cherry, plum, and blackcurrant, often evolving secondary notes of leather and tobacco as they mature.

Primary wine regions for Tinto Cão include the Douro and Dão, where the grape thrives in hot, rugged terrains, delivering lower yields but exceptional concentration. Typical wine styles range from full-bodied, structured still reds to commanding, complex Ports.

Recommended food pairings highlight the grape’s balance and depth—Tinto Cão wines pair elegantly with roasted lamb, aged cheeses, game, and savory dishes featuring earthy herbs and spices. Their fresh acidity and persistent finish also complement rich pork or mushroom-based cuisine, making them a versatile choice for sophisticated meals.