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- stefallo - 03-25-2004
Is the following wine a good quality wine, any info would be fantastic. Barbeito Malvasia 'Quinta da Piedade' 1944
- Tastevin - 03-26-2004
Hello Stefallo. Yes it is a very good Madeira, and I am so jealous. It was made in Madeira (should say so on the label) from the Malvasia grape variety (over here Malvasia is usually referred to as Malmsey). It is the sweetest and richest Madeira wine. Dark amber in colour, honeyed and rich on the palate with a sharpish tang. As with Spanish Sherry, Madeira does not come in vintages so the date 1944 may be the year of bottling, or the date the Solera was started. Before you ask, no don't worry about its age; it lasts a long, long, time, provided of course that it has been stored properly. What to drink it with? For me, there's very few better ways to finish off the day or a meal, than to sit down in the evening with a bowl of nuts and a glass, or three, of Malmsey. I don't know much about your cuisine, but I'm sure another board member will be able to help suggest something.Over here your bottle sells retail for something like 150 UK Pounds. It is said that in 1478 our Duke of Clarence was murdered by drowning in a cask of Malmsey. How's that for a bit of useless information for you! Hope that helps. T.
[This message has been edited by Tastevin (edited 03-26-2004).]
- Thomas - 03-26-2004
Yep, Tastevin is not kidding about Madeira. (But, although uncommon, vintage-dated ones have been produced).
Malmsey is a sweet and lovely sipper on its own. Fine with pungent-sharp cheese, strong-flavored nuts, berry fruits. It is also great to use as you would use syrup--over ice cream or to soothe a sore throat (which I get a few times a month just so I can open a new Madeira...).
One other wonderful thing about Mdeira is that it virtually never dies. That 1944 is likely as drinkable today as it was then. Because of the way the wine is produced (cooked at one point) it is just about Pasteurized and able to live longer than most of us.
- Tastevin - 03-26-2004
Yes Foodie, you are quite correct about vintage Madeira, some has been released. However, it is quite rare. I must be going dotty in my old age. T
[This message has been edited by Tastevin (edited 03-26-2004).]
[This message has been edited by Tastevin (edited 03-26-2004).]
- stefallo - 03-26-2004
Thanks for all the info, it is a birthday present. I have a mother that is the same vintage (1944). Thanks again
- Thomas - 03-27-2004
Stefallo, I am 1945. Next year I expect you to send me a 1945 Madeira for my birthday (I once tasted one--Blandy's or Cosart, can't remember which, but it was super fine).