Boal (grape)

Variety of grape

Boal is a variety of grape primarily grown in Portugal, known for its role in the production of Madeira wine. This grape variety is appreciated for its ability to produce wines with a rich, full-bodied character and a distinctive aromatic profile.

Characteristics

Boal grapes are medium to large in size, with a thick skin that provides resistance to disease and pests. The berries are typically a golden yellow color when ripe, contributing to the wine's rich hue. The grape is known for its high sugar content, which is ideal for the production of sweet and fortified wines.

Wine Production

Boal grapes on the vine

Boal is most famously used in the production of Madeira wine, a fortified wine from the Madeira Islands. The wine made from Boal grapes is typically medium-sweet, with a balanced acidity that prevents it from being cloying. The aging process in casks contributes to the development of complex flavors, including notes of dried fruit, nuts, and caramel.

The traditional method of producing Madeira involves heating the wine, a process known as "estufagem," which helps to develop its unique flavor profile. Boal wines are often aged for many years, allowing them to develop a deep, amber color and a rich, layered taste.

Regions

While Boal is most closely associated with Madeira, it is also grown in other regions of Portugal, including the Douro Valley and the Alentejo. In these regions, Boal is sometimes blended with other grape varieties to produce table wines with a distinctive character.

Synonyms

Boal is known by several other names, depending on the region and the specific clone of the grape. Some of these synonyms include Bual, Malvasia Fina, and Malvasia Candida. These names reflect the grape's historical connections to the broader family of Malvasia grapes, which are grown throughout the Mediterranean region.

Related pages

• Madeira wine
• Fortified wine
• Portuguese wine
• Grape varieties