Cercial
Cercial, also known as Esgana Cão, is a white grape variety native to Portugal, particularly famous in regions like Dão, Bairrada, and the island of Madeira. It has a long history in Portuguese viticulture and is often confused with other similarly named varieties like Sercial (used in Madeira), although they are distinct grapes.
Taste Profile: Cercial wines tend to exhibit a bright, refreshing profile with high acidity. They often show flavors of citrus, green apple, and pear, accompanied by floral notes and a distinct minerality. The wines can be crisp and light-bodied when young, with a clean, zesty finish. Some examples that undergo aging may develop more complexity with subtle nutty and honeyed characteristics.
Regional Styles:
- Dão: In the Dão region, Cercial is often blended with other local grapes to add structure and acidity to the wine. Here, it’s known for producing fresh and lively white wines with a good balance of fruit and mineral notes.
- Bairrada: In Bairrada, Cercial contributes to the region's light, high-acid white wines. Its crisp character makes it ideal for blending, but single varietal expressions can also be found.
- Madeira: On the island of Madeira, Cercial (not to be confused with the distinct Sercial grape) can produce wines that range from dry to semi-sweet, often displaying bracing acidity and intense longevity.
Cercial is known for its naturally high acidity, which is why it is often referred to as Esgana Cão, meaning "Dog Strangler" in Portuguese — a nod to its sharp, mouth-puckering potential when not carefully managed in winemaking.
