For The Love Of Port

Alright folks,

As many of you know from my posts in the Port Forum I am newer to Port than most of you. I am developing my palate and tastes and opinions as I go along.

Of course, having never even ventured into the Madeira Forum, I find myself yet again overwhelmed by the many many notes in here - considering I am starting from ground zero with Madeira. I have never tasted it - yet. I have resolved that I will do so shortly, but do not have the time to read thru the forum to get an idea on what to look for as far as a first jump into Madeira.

So my question for you is this:
Which Madeira would you recommend to a newbie, with a budget of no more than say $50 Cdn (~$46USD and ~23GBP) <--Sorry, don't know how to make the Pound Sterling symbol on my present keyboard/font set. I'll have to look that up!

I'm not sure of the selection around these parts (I fear it will be more difficult to find than good VPs!!) but I am determined to try at least one in the next month or so.

Thanks for the anticipated responses!

Todd

Todd,

I'm very new to Madeira also and I've enjoyed the Broadbent 10 year Malmsey (about $40 US).

and also the Boal and Malmsey from the Rare Wine Company's Historic Series. Both around $35-38 US

Not sure if those are available in your area....

Good question Andy but I will surely be finding out shortly! :) Of not, perhaps my trip to California will not just include a port-purchase

Todd

Todd,

If they are available, the 10-year Henriques & Henriques wines are very good, especially if you want to try the drier styles.

Another good choice for trying the drier style madeira is the Barbeito "VB", which is a blend of 5 year old bual and verdelho. It costs US$30 (500ml) from the Rare Wine Company. Roy has commented favorably on this wine in the forum. I've had it and intend to buy more.

Gary

Gary Banker wrote:Todd,

If they are available, the 10-year Henriques & Henriques wines are very good, especially if you want to try the drier styles.

Another good choice for trying the drier style madeira is the Barbeito "VB", which is a blend of 5 year old bual and verdelho. It costs US$30 (500ml) from the Rare Wine Company. Roy has commented favorably on this wine in the forum. I've had it and intend to buy more.

Gary

Gary,

Found the Henriques 10 yr (and I believe a 15 yr) but the prices seemed steep ($65Cdn and $78Cdn respectively - about 60 and 70 USD) I passed for now, but will keep looking. I was in one of the more expensive places in town, so it was to be expected, but still...

Todd

That seem like WAY to much for those wines. Keep looking because you can probably find them for one half that price (at least in the US, even accounting for the currancy difference).

I do agree with the suggestions Henriques 10-15 yr, Broadbent 10 yr Malmsey and reserve Terrentez, and RWC. Any other suggestions guys (so I can try them)?

Jay

The Barbeito VB (Verdelho-Bual blend) is a screaming deal at $25.

I'll keep my eyes open for that particular one. It seems that there is not a whole lot of selection of Madeira (surprise surprise) in Edmonton, but even less than Vintage Port!

Todd

Also for under $100 but a fine wine, you can explore the 1977 D'Oliveiras Sercial (actually $90 at RWC).

But do check out the Historic Series Bual and Malmsey at $40 and the 10 year old Broadbent Malmsey at slighty less money .. all of which are pretty remarkable for the money.