
Each of the grape types produces a specific type of Madeira wine. They grow them on small terraces at different altitudes in most parts of the island. Winemakers use several varieties to produce Madeira wine. So only wines from the Portuguese island may be labeled as Madeira wine. Today, Madeira is a protected designation of origin. Independence Day on July 4th, 1776, their glasses were filled with Madeira Wine. Some of them even made history: When George Washington and Thomas Jefferson toasted the U.S. Over the centuries, Madeira gained popularity, and many wine connoisseurs became lovers of this fortified wine. This effect, called “sea-aging”, gave Madeira wine its nickname “Vinho da Roda” (English: wine of the round trip). But instead of ruining the wine, it improved its flavor significantly. And the colonies of the European empires in these regions had a high demand for wine.ĭuring their journeys, the sailors made an interesting discovery: The Caribbean heat cooked the wine in the barrels. The island of Madeira became an important supply station for ships that traveled from Europe to the Americas or the East Indies. Madeira wine has been produced since the 15th century and became internationally popular in the 1600s. Bird’s Eye View of the Coast of Madeira Island THE HISTORY OF MADEIRA WINES Its subtropical climate with high temperatures, extreme humidity, and much rain provides excellent conditions for the grapes grown all over the island. Madeira is an autonomous region of Portugal, located about 440 miles (700 kilometers) west of the Moroccan coast. The home of the Madeira wine is a small, rocky island in the Atlantic Ocean with the same name. Keep on reading to learn everything about it. There are various aspects that make this Portuguese wine special: its home region, its fascinating history, and its traditional winemaking techniques. Depending on the exact varietal and the production process, it comes in many different quality tiers and can range from dry to very sweet. It’s made from various white and red varietals and fortified by adding Brandy. Madeira wine is a fortified wine from the island of Madeira. But in some cases, chance plays an even more prominent role in creating a great wine. And, of course, the knowledge and talent of the winemakers are essential.

Among them are the characteristics of the varietal, the quality of the soil, and the weather. Many different factors determine wine quality.
