Question about D'Oliverias importing.

[Eric Ifune]

I just obtained a few bottles of D'Oliverias Verdelho that seem to predate the Rare Wine Company's importation. They have the old IVM selo instead of the current IVBAM selo. Does anyone know when the Rare Wine Company started to import D'Oliverias?
Thanks!

[Roy Hersh]

They began importing Madeira in 1989, but I don't know the exact year that Mannie began bringing in the D'Oliveiras in particular. Not sure who would have brought them into the USA prior to that, but I know Bob M. was buying Madeira in the USA back in the 1970's. Darrel Corti in the Sacramento area (Corti Bros.) was certainly bringing in Madeira long before RWC was in existence. So that is a possibility too.

[Eric Ifune]

The importation label is by Heritage Imports of Newport Beach, California. It says they have the exclusive importation of D'Oliverias. I couldn't find any info on them on-line. I'm guessing they're out of business or got bought out. While the bottles seem in excellent condition, the labels and wax capsule do show some age and I wouldn't be surprised if they are 20+ years old. Trying to estimate the bottling date.