Henriques & Henriques Finest Medium Dry 5 Years Old Madeira

 

 

With the exception of Marsala, Madeira is perhaps one of the least trendy of wine styles. I’m all for it. How can you not like a wine that is deliberately heated and oxidised to simulate the conditions of storage on a trade ship travelling around the equator? That’s rock and roll, matey.

Madeira can be made from a few varieties, namely Sercial, Verdelho, Bual and Malvasia, and Tinta Negra Mole. Like Sherry, it can also be made from dry to sweet. This one (I believe) is made from Tinta Negra Mole and Verdelho.

Aromas of custard, wood shavings, raisins, caramel, and something musty and reassuring like a wet dog (seriously!). There’s plenty of fresh fruit and nuts there too, like a Renaissance painting. For such a young Madeira, it’s very complex. There’s a touch of sweetness akin to Amontillado Sherry; a fortified style that I’d liken this wine to.

You could serve this with cheese platters or a pea & ham soup even. This is where my Madeira journey begins.

Very Good.

Closure: Cork stopper

Source: Retail