Bual

Bual is a type of fortified wine that is produced on the Portuguese island of Madeira. It is made from the Bual grape variety, which is known for its high acidity and sweetness. Bual is one of the four main grape varieties used in Madeira wine production, along with Sercial, Verdelho, and Malvasia.

Bual is a medium-sweet wine that is often described as having a nutty, caramel-like flavor. It is typically aged for at least five years in oak barrels, which gives it a rich, complex flavor profile. Bual is also known for its high alcohol content, which ranges from 19% to 22% ABV.

There are several different varieties of Bual, each with its own unique flavor profile. The most common varieties include:

• Bual Frasqueira – This is a vintage Bual that is aged for at least 20 years in oak barrels. It has a rich, complex flavor profile with notes of caramel, nuts, and dried fruit.
• Bual Colheita – This is a single vintage Bual that is aged for at least five years in oak barrels. It has a lighter, fresher flavor profile than Bual Frasqueira, with notes of citrus and honey.
• Bual Reserva – This is a blend of Bual wines that are aged for at least five years in oak barrels. It has a rich, nutty flavor profile with notes of caramel and dried fruit.

There are several famous brands of Bual, including:

• Blandy’s – This is one of the oldest and most respected Madeira wine producers. Blandy’s Bual is known for its rich, complex flavor profile and is aged for at least five years in oak barrels.
• Henriques & Henriques – This is another well-known Madeira wine producer. Henriques & Henriques Bual is aged for at least five years in oak barrels and has a rich, nutty flavor profile.
• Justino’s – Justino’s is one of the largest Madeira wine producers. Its Bual is aged for at least five years in oak barrels and has a rich, caramel-like flavor profile.

Bual is a great drink for several reasons:

• It has a rich, complex flavor profile that is perfect for sipping on its own or pairing with desserts.
• It is a versatile wine that can be enjoyed at any time of day, whether as an aperitif or after-dinner drink.
• It is a unique and rare wine that is not widely available, making it a special treat for wine enthusiasts.
• It has a long shelf life and can be aged for decades, making it a great investment for collectors.
• It is a traditional wine that has been produced on the island of Madeira for centuries, making it a part of Portuguese culture and history.