Bual is the English term named after the Portuguese Boal grape. The white wine grape variety refers to a handful of grapes, but it typically refers to the Bual de Madeira grape type. Bual wines are typically sweet wines that are produced from large and sweet grapes. The heaviness and flavor of the Bual grapes make them delicious table grapes. The taste of these grapes is similar to the Sercial variety. The bual grape type is a great place to start if one is trying Madeira wines for the first time. Bual wine is typically aromatic, but is not too sweet. This wine has hints of acidity, which helps balance the sweetness of it. Although it is one of the darkest, if not the darkest of all wines from Madeira, the type is certainly not overpowering and is very palatable. Madeira wines from the Bual variety are usually not as sweet as wine crafted from the Malmsey grape type, but it is sweeter than other grape types. The hints of caramel, apricot, orange, and dried fruits lend Bual a distinct taste. The Bual vines typically grow in regions of Spain and Portugal, but the regions tend to use the variety for fortified wines.
Carmo Vinhos Madeira Bual 10 Yr has depth, medium body, acidity and sweetness. Lively and full with delicious flavors of caramel and toffee and a lasting aftertaste. Delicious as a dessert wine. This wine demonstrates the perfection of the blender's art and is to be savored.
The nose here is brilliantly red fruited, with layer upon layer of subtle spice, bright floral notes, herbs, and stone. Its not all poetry and pageantry, though, and the first impression of the wine was simply, “oh that’s goooood.” A fair assessment, and sometimes that it all one requires. Further tastes show fine tannin throughout, a juicy, vibrant mouthfeel that is very likeable, and deft, long-developing layers of fruit that reveal themselves severally.
Patton Valley's flagship wine, The Estate is the most comprehensive expression of their vineyard site, and the wine that truly defines their place in a given vintage.
Review:
"Glistening red. Vibrant red fruit, floral and spice scents show very good clarity that picks up subtle hints of succulent herbs and smoky minerals with air. Juicy and energetic in the mouth, the 2017 offers gently sweet cherry raspberry and rose pastille flavors and a touch of spicecake. Smooth, well-integrated tannins make a late appearance on a long, floral-tinged finish that shows no rough edges.
- Josh Raynolds" - Antonio Galloni's Vinous (August 2020), 92 pts
Joseph Phelps Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon is made from 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petit Verdot, 2% Cabernet Franc, 1% Merlot, 1% Malbec.
A classic Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon with inviting violet, dark fruit, tobacco, subtle baking spice and earthy dried herb aromatics. The palate is filled with expressive black cherry, blackberry and dark plum, hints of spice box and sweet vanilla bean. A focused, concentrated wine with youthful energy and freshness nimbly balanced by supple tannin structure and finesse.
Review:
Blackcurrants, spiced cedar and dark spices with bark undertones. Full-bodied with very fine, velvety tannins. Textured and compact with a firm, lingering finish. Tight at the end. Needs time to open.
-James Suckling 94 Points