Crasto

Crasto is a Portuguese word that denotes a rocky outcrop or cliff and is used in toponyms across Portugal. In rural and agricultural contexts, the term often refers to elevated, rugged features that stand out in the landscape.

One of the most notable modern uses of the name is Quinta do Crasto, a historic wine estate in the Douro Valley in northern Portugal. The estate sits on steep, terraced slopes along the Douro River and is known for producing Douro red wines. The winery combines traditional vineyard practices with contemporary winemaking, and its wines are released under the Douro DOC designation. The estate emphasizes a hillside terroir, with wines that frequently showcase structure, depth, and aging potential.

Beyond the winery, Crasto appears in other Portuguese place names and as a surname within Portuguese-speaking communities. As a toponym, it typically marks geographical features or elevations; as a surname it is carried by individuals and families in various regions.

Overall, Crasto is primarily associated with Portuguese geography and viticulture, with Quinta do Crasto standing as the best-known contemporary reference connected to the name. The term also appears in broader discussions of Portuguese toponymy and regional wine traditions.