Grape Variety
Bical
"bee-KAHL"
Wine Styles
Sparkling
Light White
Full White
Aromatic
Rosé
Light Red
Medium Red
Full Red
DessertAbout Bical
Origin
Bairrada, Portugal
History
Bical is a white Portuguese wine grape variety primarily planted in the Bairrada and Dão regions. Known for its high acidity, it is often used in the production of sparkling wines and dry table wines. The grape is also referred to as 'Borrado das Moscas' in Dão, which translates to 'fly droppings,' due to the small brown spots that appear on the ripe grapes.
Appearance
Yellow-skinned berries with small brown freckles, growing in compact clusters.
Growing Traits
Bical is an early-ripening variety that can develop high alcohol levels if left on the vine too long. It thrives in limestone-rich soils and is susceptible to powdery mildew but resistant to rot. The grape's high acidity makes it suitable for both sparkling and still wine production.
Wine Characteristics
Body
2/5
Sweetness
1/5
Tannin
1/5
Acidity
5/5
Alcohol
3/5
Light to medium-bodied with a crisp and refreshing profile, offering a balanced and lively mouthfeel. Dry, with minimal residual sugar, focusing on fresh fruit and mineral flavors. Negligible tannin levels, characteristic of white wines, contributing to its smooth and clean profile. High acidity, providing vibrancy and freshness, making it suitable for sparkling wine production. Moderate alcohol content, typically ranging between 11% and 13%, ensuring balance and drinkability.
Taste Profile
Apricot
Peach
Citrus
Mineral
Floral
Bical wines are characterized by stone fruit flavors of apricot and peach, complemented by citrus notes and a distinct minerality. Floral aromas add complexity, all balanced by high acidity, resulting in a crisp and refreshing finish.
Food Pairing
Bical's high acidity and fresh fruit flavors make it an excellent match for seafood dishes, such as steamed mussels or grilled white fish. It also pairs well with light poultry dishes and soft cheeses. The wine's crispness complements dishes with citrus elements and can serve as a delightful aperitif.
Growing Regions
Portugal
BairradaDãoBeiras
Notable Wines & Producers
Luis Pato Vinhas Velhas Branco
Luis Pato
Filipa Pato 3B Blanc de Blancs
Filipa Pato
Bical FAQ
Common questions about this grape variety
What is the origin of Bical?
+
Bairrada, Portugal
Is Bical wine full bodied?
+
Bical has a body level of 2 out of 5. Which means that Bical is Moderate to Light bodied.
Is Bical wine dry or sweet?
+
Bical has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Bical is Dry.
Where is Bical wine from?
+
Bairrada, Portugal
Where is Bical grown?
+
Bical is grown in Portugal (Bairrada, Dão, Beiras).
What is Bical like?
+
Bical wines are characterized by stone fruit flavors of apricot and peach, complemented by citrus notes and a distinct minerality. Floral aromas add complexity, all balanced by high acidity, resulting in a crisp and refreshing finish.
What does Bical pair with?
+
Bical's high acidity and fresh fruit flavors make it an excellent match for seafood dishes, such as steamed mussels or grilled white fish. It also pairs well with light poultry dishes and soft cheeses. The wine's crispness complements dishes with citrus elements and can serve as a delightful aperitif.
What does Bical taste like?
+
Bical wines are characterized by stone fruit flavors of apricot and peach, complemented by citrus notes and a distinct minerality. Floral aromas add complexity, all balanced by high acidity, resulting in a crisp and refreshing finish.
Take Bical Knowledge with You
Access detailed grape profiles, tasting notes, and pairing suggestions on your iPhone.
Download on theApp Store