The introduction of a Portuguese grape could "reshape" Bordeaux winemaking, according to one expert.

Master of wine Tim Atkin told the Drinks Business that Touriga Nacional has the potential to help Bordeaux diversity its portfolio.

He went on to reveal that Louis Roederer of Chateau Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande has planted the varietal and is getting positive results.

Mr Atkin added: "Touriga Nacional is one of the great red grape varieties of the world.

"It's incredibly adaptable and people are just beginning to experiment with it. I think it might reshape Bordeaux."

Wines within the official Bordeaux classification system are only permitted to use Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Malbec and Carmenere grapes.

Michel Rolland export manager Pascal Fricard recently suggested that Bordeaux must consider non-native grapes if it is to allow smaller producers in the region to thrive.

Without this, he believes that the gap between smaller estates and First Growth Bordeaux will become too large.