The Bical
Grape
A white grape variety native to Portugal, particularly prominent in the Bairrada region. Bical is known for its high acidity and citrus and tropical fruit flavors, often contributing to the region's sparkling wines. It can also produce rich, full-bodied still wines with aging potential.
Bical
Grape History
Bical is a white wine grape variety native to the Bairrada region in Portugal. It is believed to have originated in the region during the 19th century and has since gained popularity for its unique characteristics and versatility in winemaking. The name "Bical" is derived from the Portuguese word "bico," which means beak, referring to the pointed shape of the grape bunches.
Bical is known for its high acidity, which makes it ideal for producing sparkling wines, particularly in the Bairrada and Beiras regions of Portugal. The grape is also used in the production of still white wines, where it can exhibit notes of citrus, floral aromas, and minerality.
One interesting fact about Bical is its resistance to disease, particularly to powdery mildew, which makes it a relatively low-maintenance grape variety for growers. Additionally, Bical is known for its ability to reflect the terroir in which it is grown, resulting in wines that showcase the unique characteristics of the Bairrada region.
Bical is primarily grown in Portugal, with its main production area being in the Bairrada region. The grape is also cultivated in other regions of Portugal, such as Beiras and Ribatejo, as well as in some parts of Australia. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in Bical from winemakers in other countries, particularly in cool-climate regions where the grape's high acidity can thrive.
In terms of wine styles, Bical is commonly used in the production of sparkling wines, particularly in the traditional method (similar to Champagne), where it adds freshness and acidity to the final blend. It is also used to produce still white wines, either as a varietal or in blends with other local grape varieties.
Looking towards the future, Bical is expected to continue to gain recognition both in Portugal and internationally. As consumers seek out unique and lesser-known grape varieties, Bical's distinct characteristics and versatility in winemaking make it a promising grape variety for producers looking to stand out in the market. With its ability to produce high-quality sparkling and still wines, Bical is likely to become a staple in the portfolios of many innovative winemakers seeking to showcase the best of Portuguese wine.
Introduction
Hello, my name is Franklin Laurel - Welcome!
I started drinking wine in 1992 when I was in my early twenties and recently married. Like many other young Southern Californians, it started out with White Zinfandel. As we were a couple of young DINKs just beginning life together, and on a budget, our go-to-wine was Sutter Home White Zinfandel, which tasted a lot like wine coolers and probably cost at the time $2.49. If we really were going to splurge, we would step it up and buy Beringer White Zinfandel for $2.99. Those were the days....
After a little time, we decided to get fancy. We stepped up our game and bought some wonderful 2-Buck Chuck from Trader Joe's. The Charles Shaw (Trader Joe's Exclusive Label) wine, also known as 2-Buck-Chuck extended our pallet into Reds for only $1.99 a bottle. Over the years we continued to grow in our understanding of wine (finally ran into some good wine) and we slowly kept buying better and better bottles.
Our first wine club purchase was from Kenwood's Vineyards, in Kenwood, California located in Sonoma Valley, right next to the famous Napa Valley. I began to learn about tobacco leather, and earthiness, and lots of other strange terminology when tasting their signature Zinfandels (of the red variety). So that is how it all began.
Fast forward a couple decades, and we have been members of five different wine clubs, and now have a passion for California's red wines. My favorite by far is Cabernet Sauvignon, while my wife fancies a good Syrah, Malbec, or Merlot - but she also loves the smell of a wine barrel room, which is all about the notes of Cabernet Sauvignon.
As I come across great wine resources and useful information that I find in planning my own wine trips, I will share here for anyone that might stumble across my humble website.
Cheers! - Franklin Laurel