Malvasia (Madeira)

Makes Malmsey, the sweetest style of Madeira. Most is now Malvasia de São Jorge; the historic Malvasia Cândida is very rare.

In the glassRich toffee, coffee, dried fruit, balanced by acidity.

Wines made with Malvasia (Madeira)

Madeira

Fortified

Vinho da Madeira

Fortified wine from the island of Madeira, aged with heat and air until it becomes almost indestructible. Cheaper wines are warmed in tanks (estufagem); the best age slowly in casks in warm lofts (canteiro). An opened bottle keeps for months, and century-old vintages are still lively.

Critics: up to 97 pts

Producers to try

Blandy’s

Est. 1811

Funchal · Madeira

The Blandy family has made Madeira for more than two centuries. Its Funchal lodge is one of the island’s main visitor attractions.

Barbeito

Est. 1946

Câmara de Lobos · Madeira

A small, innovative house known for precise, very fresh Madeiras made without added caramel colouring.

Henriques & Henriques

Est. 1850

Câmara de Lobos · Madeira

One of the island’s great old houses, with deep stocks of aged and vintage Madeira.

Justino’s

Est. 1870

Caniço · Madeira

The island’s largest producer and a major exporter of Madeira.