Más vino por favor
If a king six thousand miles away told you to stop making wine, would you listen? Neither would I, and neither did a bunch of Spanish missionaries in the 16th century. Thank goodness. Their propagation of the Misión grape (aka Pais) is the reason wine continues to be made south of our border.
Fast forward to 2014 and the founding of Bichi by the Tellez family. Bichi means “naked” in the Sonoran dialect. They have focused on making pure, terroir-driven wines from day one. The hot, dry climate is regulated by its proximity to the Pacific. Granitic soils and the salty sea air are the only influences. Naked, free of manipulation, “sin maquillaje” (without makeup). Their wines are fermented in concrete amphorae, élévage takes place in neutral barrels or stainless-steel tanks. Methods in the winery are driven by the natural characteristics of the grapes. These wines are perfect representations of their region. Try a few and see if you agree. Cheers!
Bichi, Rosa
Varietal: Pais
Snappy acidity driven by garden fresh tomatoes and strawberries. Find your way to some carne asada and go to town. So glad to have this wine on the shelf again!
Bichi, Santa
Is it Dolcetto? Is it Carignan? See for yourself, guessing is half the fun! A few flowers, barely ripe plums, and a little pomegranate make for the perfect chillable red.
Bichi, Flama Roja
Varietals: Nebbiolo, Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon
Weightier than its siblings, the tannins here keep the raspberries, sun-dried tomatoes, and black currants in check. But it still deserves some time in the fridge before it hits your glass.
Bichi, Pet Mex
Mystery varietal grown in granite and sandy loam soils? We will absolutely roll the dice. We’re ready to be refreshed.
Bichi, Listan
Varietal: Misión (Pais)
Made from 100 year old Misión vines grown at considerable elevation, the low-yield harvest creates an intriguing red wine that’s as savory as it is delicate. A bit of smoke and ocean air will make you want to swirl your glass all night long.
Bichi, No Sapiens
Varietals: Tempranillo, Cariñena
The heavy-hitter of the group. The black and blueberries are complemented perfectly by this wine’s perfectly balanced salinity. I daresay this one deserves some air before serving, time to break out the decanter.
