The Good Taste of Madeira

The Portuguese Chamber held a Madeira Tasting evening for its members in February.

Ben Campbell-Johnston, Madeira expert and a member of the Symington Family, joint owners of the Madeira Wine Company that produce Blandy’s and Cossart Gordon Madeira, presented this tutored tasting, featuring a fine assortment of Madeira wines from the group’s brands.

Ben showed the new 5 year old Alvada Madeira, which Blandy’s have launched in 50cl bottles, smaller than the normal 70cl. This range is both lighter than some Madeira wines and very affordable. The smaller bottle will allow for the Madeira to be finished rather than linger in the bottle.

The evening progressed and older and rarer wines were sampled and approved by everyone. The final wine of the evening was an exceptional 1976 Vintage Terrantez which was rare and rather special. It was clear that Madeira wines are underappreciated and with their great depth of taste and flexibility can offer an alternative to Port.

The Portuguese Ambassador HE Mr Antonio Santana Carlos also attended the tasting and the Chamber is grateful to him for hosting the event at the Chancellery facilities.

The Madeira wine was kindly provided by John E Fells & Sons Ltd:
Tel 01442 870 900 - email: info@fells.co.uk - www.fells.co.uk


 

Rita Pereira, Neville de Rougemont and Peter Lovell, CIN