Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Wine Spectator
Though not forthcoming in aroma, displaying butterscotch and hints of herbs, this has a seamless integration of components on the palate, balanced and harmonious, with vibrant acidity weaving throughout. Long finish, adding just a hint of dryness at the end. Gentle, but with inner strength.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
I have not encountered the 1954 Malvasia since I first visited the island in 2003. It offers an intriguing bouquet of melted butter, quince, rosewater and a touch of furniture polish. It demonstrates wonderful clarity and precision. The palate is medium-bodied with a rounded, viscous entry. It is very pure, with touches of quince, burnt toast, creme brulee and lemongrass, and it fans out beautifully across the mouth with a sensual, caressing finish that is irresistible. This is very refined.
A steep, volcanic island in the Atlantic Ocean that rises to over 6,000 feet at its highest point, Madeira actually sits closer to Morocco than Portugal, the country to which it belongs.
Today the vineyards of the island cover tiny step-like terraces called poios, carved from the basalt bedrock. Aptly named Madeira, this fortified wine comes in two main styles. Blended Madeira is mostly inexpensive wine but there are a few remarkable aged styles. Single varietal Madeira (made from Sercial, Verdelho, Boal or Malmsey), is usually the highest quality and has the potential to improve in the bottle for decades.
HNYBABMAA54C_1954 Item# 40860