Help with Madeira....

[little tanuki]

My husband enjoys Madeira but has never splurged on anything expensive, and frankly, I don't know very much about it. I would love to surprise him with a fantastic bottle for a gift. I can spend about $50-60. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks!

Melanie.

[wineguruchgo]

Hello Little Tanuki,

Like with most wine, Madiera comes in a variety of flavor characteristics. Here is a run down of the different types of Madiera. Hopefully you know his tastes so you can pick which one he would like.

I'm not really familiar with the producers of Madiera. Maybe others can help you here.

Malmsey (Sweet, smooth, rich and fragrant)

Boal (Half Sweet, for cocktails and desserts)

Sercial (Dry, excellent as an aperitif)

Verdelho (Half Dry, for desserts)

[Thomas]

Look for Blandy's Madeira. Good products and within your price range.

There is another Madeira called Rainwater, but that is a journeyman wine; not special enough.

Also, it is rare to find a vintage Mdeira--they don't often produce them. You will see on the labels 5 Year, 10 Year and 20 Year--refers to aging and blending. With each jump in years so goes a jump in price.

[californiagirl]

We got a madeira at V. Sattui that is available through mail order. TB likes it. Pretty good. Reminds me of tawny port.

[Thomas]

cg, that's in the domain of improper use of names: like Champagne, Madeira is a place and a process, not a wine.

Having said that, I have tasted a couple of California ripoffs of the wine that are ok.

[californiagirl]

Shame on them! Now that you say that, I knew that. Musta slipped. Thanks foodie!

But for whatever reason V.Sattui calls it that, it's still decent stuff.

[little tanuki]

Actually, mine and my hubby's first introduction to Madeira was "madeira" from V. Sattui. We were in Napa for our honeymoon....

I've been looking into the Blandy's....I think Malmsey is the right way to go for him, and if I can find it in my area, a 15 year.

[Thomas]

I think a 15 Year will stretch outside your planned budget, but it will be worth every penny.