Winemaker Notes
Produced from a remarkable year’s harvest, from the Tinta Negra variety, this grape is recognized as being one of the recommended varieties. It comprises over 60% of the total amount of Madeira wine produced annually. This wine variety is known to adapt easily to the island’s different wine-growing areas and the most significant quantities are grown in Câmara de Lobos and São Vicente.
This medium dry Madeira wine is ideal as an aperitif, or you may choose it to accompany your consommé. Equally as good enjoyed on it’s own.
It is important to let the wine breathe for a while after it has been opened, in order to develop the fullness of its aromas. If only part of the wine is consumed, the remainder can be kept in the bottle for many years. It is possible that this wine will develop through this prior airing. Please remember to use the supplementary cork so that it is completely sealed. D'Oliveira recommends that the bottle be kept upright, away from extreme temperatures and served at a temperature of around 18º C or room temperature. If the wine is kept for many years in the bottle, some natural, deposit may accumulate. This is a sign of life and is part of the inherent natural qualities of this genuine Madeira. D'Oliveira advises great care in serving it to prevent clouding. If preferred, it may be decanted.
Professional Ratings
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Wine Spectator
A rich, robust style, with smoky notes to the flavors of dried tropical fruits and apple, enlivened by accents of citrus zest. Cedar and dried ginger details fill the powerfully structured finish. Still an adolescent, with a long future ahead. Very pure.
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.