Madeira wines: The history and secrets of a captivating nectar

With its unique flavors and great diversity, Madeira wine is a captivating nectar. What are the secrets of this legendary drink? What is its story? Discover all the history and subtleties of Madeira wine, and discover these delicious varieties that will seduce you.

What is Madeira wine?

Madeira wine is an oenological adventure in its own right! Imagine yourself in the rugged vineyards of this Portuguese island, where the local grape varieties Sercial, Verdelho, Bual and Malvasia (Malmsey) mingle, each revealing its unique touch to this captivating nectar.

But be careful, dear adventurer, the magic begins during winemaking! This is where Madeira wine reveals its well-kept secret: the heating process, called "estufagem" or "canteiro". Thanks to this daring technique, the wine is heated for a specific time, thus accelerating its aging and creating incomparable aromas and flavors.

And what about the taste? Ah, there you are served! Notes of nuts and spices flourish in the drier versions, while the sweet vintages charm you with their nuances of caramel and candied fruit. From golden colors to amber reds, each glass promises you an intoxicating taste journey.

But the real treasure of this exceptional wine is its long life! Like an adventurer through the ages, Madeira wine improves with time, making each sip a unique and precious moment.

What is the difference between Madeira wine and port?

Madeira wine, like port, is fortified, but what sets it apart is its heating process during aging, called "estufagem" or "canteiro." This daring practice gives it notes of nuts, spices and a palette of colors ranging from golden to amber red.

Then, head to the sunny hillsides of Portugal, where port reveals its magic. Port, also fortified, does not undergo heating like its Madeiran counterpart. Port variations, whether tawny, ruby ​​or vintage, offer aromas of red fruits, dried fruits and caramel, evolving gracefully over time.

Another difference, dear adventurer of flavors, lies in the grape varieties used. Madeira wine celebrates local grape varieties such as Sercial, Verdelho, Bual and Malvasia (Malmsey), while port shines with its native varieties such as Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, and many others.

Finally, it is in their respective vocation that these treasures differ. Madeira wine, with its legendary longevity, excels as an aperitif, digestive or even as a culinary ingredient, while port, like a companion to desserts, goes wonderfully with sweet treats.

What food pairings are recommended with Madeira wine?

First of all, during your aperitifs, let yourself be seduced by savory appetizers such as olives, dried fruits or mature cheeses. The subtle character of Madeira wine will highlight these savory delights.

Then, for starters, take your senses on a journey with seafood dishes, such as oysters, shrimp or scallops. Their maritime freshness and the finesse of Madeira wine will form an exceptional duo.

For main courses, don't hesitate to go on a culinary adventure with grilled meats, game or roast poultry. Madeira wine, with notes of nuts and spices, pairs wonderfully with these robust flavors.

And what about sweet treats! Accompany your desserts with candied fruit, fruit cakes or nut tarts, and let yourself be captivated by the harmony that will be created with sweet Madeira wine.

Finally, for cheese explorers, discover mature cheeses, such as cheddar, gouda or blue. Their intensity will blend wonderfully with the aromatic complexity of Madeira wine.

What is the alcohol level of Madeira wine?

The alcohol level of Madeira wine varies according to styles and vintages, offering a range of captivating powers. Typically, Madeira wine is fortified, meaning that a neutral alcohol is added to the wine to increase its alcohol content.

The most common Madeira styles are:

• Sercial and Verdelho, which are drier and lighter, having an alcohol content generally around 18% to 19%.
• Bual, slightly sweeter, hovers around 19% to 20% alcohol.
• Malvasia (or Malmsey), the sweetest of the styles, with an alcohol content that can reach 20% to 22%.

However, keep in mind that these figures are not fixed, because each producer can adjust the alcohol level according to their winemaking style and preferences.

Who are the main producers of Madeira wine?

Among the main Madeira wine producers, you will discover renowned houses which perpetuate centuries-old traditions. Here are some iconic names to remember:

1. Blandy's Wine Lodge: Founded in 1811, this prestigious house is one of the oldest in Madeira, recognized for its exceptional vintages and ancestral know-how.
2. Henriques & Henriques: Since 1850, this family house has produced refined Madeira wines, combining tradition and modernity for exceptional creations.
3. Vinhos Barbeito: Advocating innovation and excellence, this renowned house offers bold and contemporary vintages, while preserving the authentic character of Madeira wine.
4. Justino's Madeira Wines: With a history dating back to 1870, this house is a guardian of the Madeiran tradition, offering refined wines made from local grape varieties.
5. Madeira Wine Company: This grouping of several Madeira houses, including Blandy's, Cossart Gordon, Leacock's and Miles, offers a diversity of styles and high quality vintages.

The island is home to many other passionate producers, each bringing their unique touch to the art of Madeira wine .