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Fortified Wines

Madeira

Deliberately heated and oxidised during ageing, making it virtually indestructible — open bottles last for months.

In detail

Origin
Madeira, Portugal.
Major regions
Madeira
Grapes
Sercial, Verdelho, Bual, Malmsey
Flavour profile
Burnt caramel, roasted nut, orange peel and a piercing, salty acidity.
Body
Medium to full
Acidity
Very high
Sweetness
Dry to sweet by style

Recommended Glass

Port Glass

A small, narrow bowl with a defined taper, holding roughly three ounces.

About this glass →

Serving Temperature

12–15°C (54–59°F)

A little cooler than room temperature for reds; properly cold but not frozen for whites and sparkling.

Food Pairings

  • Consommé
  • Nuts
  • Coffee desserts
  • Aged cheese
  • Chocolate cake

Notable examples & brands

  • Barbeito Frasqueira
  • Blandy's 10 Year Malmsey
  • D'Oliveiras Verdelho