Top 10 Madeira Wines
There are several styles of Madeira wine, ranging from dry to sweet, and they are classified according to their age and the grape variety used to make them. The four main grape varieties used in Madeira wine production are Sercial, Verdelho, Bual, and Malvasia (also known as Malmsey).
Madeira wine is known for its unique and complex flavors, which are the result of the aging process and the exposure to heat. Traditionally, Madeira wine was shipped on long sea voyages, which exposed it to high temperatures and oxidative conditions that contributed to its distinct character.
Today, Madeira wine is still aged using a process called estufagem, which involves heating the wine in stainless steel tanks to replicate the conditions of traditional sea voyages. The length of time and the temperature at which the wine is heated determines the style of Madeira wine produced.
Madeira wine is often used as a dessert wine and pairs well with chocolate, nuts, and rich, creamy desserts. It can also be used in cooking, particularly in recipes that call for wine reductions or sauces.
1) Blandy's 1969 Bual: This vintage Madeira has a deep amber color and aromas of dried fruits, nuts, and caramel. On the palate, it is rich and complex with flavors of figs, raisins, and honey. The finish is long and smooth.
2) Henriques & Henriques 20 Year Old Verdelho: This Madeira has a golden color and a complex aroma of dried fruits, nuts, and spices. On the palate, it is smooth and balanced with flavors of honey, citrus, and toasted nuts.
3) Broadbent 10 Year Old Malmsey: This Madeira has a deep mahogany color and a rich aroma of toffee, caramel, and dried fruits. On the palate, it is sweet and smooth with flavors of dark chocolate, raisins, and coffee.
4) Justino's 10 Year Old Terrantez: This Madeira has a golden color and an aroma of dried fruits, honey, and spices. On the palate, it is full-bodied and complex with flavors of caramel, almonds, and orange peel.
5) D'Oliveiras 1987 Boal: This vintage Madeira has a deep amber color and an aroma of caramel, dried fruits, and nuts. On the palate, it is rich and full-bodied with flavors of figs, honey, and almonds. The finish is long and smooth.
6) Blandy's 10 Year Old Sercial: This Madeira has a pale gold color and a delicate aroma of citrus, nuts, and flowers. On the palate, it is dry and crisp with flavors of lemon, green apple, and almonds.
7) Barbeito 20 Year Old Malvasia: This Madeira has a dark amber color and an aroma of dried fruits, nuts, and caramel. On the palate, it is rich and full-bodied with flavors of raisins, honey, and chocolate. The finish is long and smooth.
8) Henriques & Henriques 15 Year Old Tinta Negra: This Madeira has a golden color and an aroma of dried fruits, nuts, and spices. On the palate, it is smooth and balanced with flavors of caramel, honey, and citrus.
9) Cossart Gordon 10 Year Old Bual: This Madeira has a deep amber color and an aroma of caramel, dried fruits, and nuts. On the palate, it is sweet and smooth with flavors of figs, honey, and toasted nuts.
10) Justino's 10 Year Old Boal: This Madeira has a golden color and an aroma of dried fruits, nuts, and honey. On the palate, it is full-bodied and complex with flavors of caramel, almonds, and citrus.
Madeira wines are a unique and fascinating category of fortified wines, and these top 10 examples showcase the range and depth of flavors that Madeira can offer.
