Enjoyment on Madeira: Discover the secrets of Madeira wine!

Enjoyment on Madeira: Discover the secrets of Madeira wine!

Madeira, the beautiful island in the Atlantic Ocean, not only offers breathtaking landscapes, but also a long tradition of wine growing. In the Fajã dos Padres region, accessible via an impressive cable car, there is a winery that is considered the cradle of Madeira wine. Original Malvasia Cândida vines grow here and look back on a 500-year history. Catarina Vilhena Correia, the owner of the estate, says that her family started growing this ancient grape variety 40 years ago, although they had no previous connection to winegrowing. The subtropical climate, ideal for tropical fruits such as bananas, papayas and mangoes, also contributes to the uniqueness of the wines.

The winery is known for its 20-year-old fortified wine, which develops aromas of candied fruits, herbs, nuts, raisins and chocolate. The old chapel of the Jesuit order was converted into a bodega where the Vinho Madeira matures for up to ten years. Factors such as microclimate, salty air and volcanic soil add special flavor elements to the wine. In addition, Madeira wine, which was brought to Madeira from Crete by Portuguese sailors in the 15th century, is made from different white grape varieties such as Sercial, Verdelho, Bual and Malvasia.

The importance of Malvasia Cândida

Malvasia, also known as Malmsey, is the most famous and appreciated wine of Madeira. Originally it was obtained almost exclusively from the Malvasia Cândida grape. However, this variety shows great susceptibility to Oidium and has specific site requirements. Although Malvasia Cândida is now found in a small area of ​​about 3 hectares on the south side of Madeira, most Malvasia wines come from the Santana wine region on the north side, where the Malvasia Branca de São Jorge grape variety is grown.

The grapes of this variety are sweet and large, resulting in full-bodied wines with spicy notes. A prominent example is the Rich Malmsey, a 15-year-old wine from Cossart Gordon & Co. These wines are aged in American oak barrels using a special canteiro system and display a variety of complex aromas, including medicinal and herbal notes as well as delicate dark chocolate.

Vintage and tourism

The wineries on Madeira, including Barbeito, H.M. Borges and Blandys, offer not only high-quality wines but also the opportunity to take part in vintage promotions. Visitors have the opportunity to be actively involved in the grape harvest, especially between the end of August and October. There is also a wine festival during this period, which is attended by numerous tourists. The best travel time for wine lovers is between mid-August and October.

Many wineries, such as Quinta das Vinhas in the southwest of the island, offer wine tastings and the opportunity to stay in quaint accommodation. Madeira is located about 700 kilometers off the West African coast and is easily accessible from Germany. A valid ID card is sufficient for entry, making the island an attractive destination for travelers who want to enjoy both the nature and the culinary delights of the region. Historical figures such as Winston Churchill appreciated the benefits of Madeira wine, which further underlines the importance of these wines.

For more information about Madeira wines and their diversity, visit the articles from Haller Kreisblatt and Dessert wines.