Bical

Bical grape is a high-quality indigenous Portuguese white variety, primarily cultivated in the Beiras regions, particularly in Bairrada and Dão. This unique grape, regionally known as "Borrado das Moscas" (fly droppings) due to the small dark spots that appear on ripe berries, produces soft, aromatic, and well-structured wines that capture the essence of Portuguese terroirs. Bical wines are distinguished by their characteristic aromas of peach and apricot, often accompanied by tropical notes in warmer vintages. The variety demonstrates excellent oak aging potential, especially with prolonged lees contact, resulting in complex wines with buttery and mineral nuances. In Bairrada, Bical is widely used in classic method sparkling wine production, frequently blended with Arinto and Cercial. The grape's early ripening allows it to retain high acidity, providing freshness and elegance to the wines. Recognized by the Instituto da Vinha e do Vinho as one of Portugal's most important white varieties, Bical is authorized in the DOCs Douro, Távora-Varosa, Bairrada, Dão, and Beira, as well as various Geographical Indications. The clay soils of Bairrada and granite terrains of Dão provide ideal conditions for expressing this Portuguese grape's unique potential, which continues to gain international recognition for the quality and typicity of its wines.