Madiera Designations Questions

[John Trombley]

I'm sure this isn't the first time this has been asked, but I can't find it with the search engine here (what else is new?)

How are Madiera Reserva, Madera Vintage, and Madiera Colhieta defined in terms of aging? Are there any other requirements for these designations? When were these rules established, and what did the designations mean before that date?

Is there such a designation as Madeira Vintage Reserva or Madeira Reserva Vintage? What are ITS requirements? Have they changed? TIA.

[Eric Ifune]

The term Vintage is actually not allowed for Madeira. The Port guys trademarked it. The terms for Madeira are Frasqueira or Garrafeira. These require a minimum of 20 years in wood. Colheita is 7 to 20 years. Both must be canteiro wines. Reserva is an older term, some producers still use it, but I believe it has no legal meaning.

[John Trombley]

Here again, Eric, I think Wikipedia may need an edit. Looked at the relevant articles of late?

[Eric Ifune]

Actually, I was incorrect, it's 5 years in cask for Colheita. (must be a canterio wine) Had a brain fart, was thinking Port Colheita when I wrote that.

Haven't looked at Wikipedia for Madeira. I guess I will now!

[Roy Hersh]

5-19 years in wood for Colheita. After that they can be called, Frasqueira as mentioned. Eric was spot on with Reserve or Reserva ... they are marketing terms and not official designations.