Blandy's Harvest 2016 Madeira (Portugal) /19%/ 0.5l

The origins of the brand date back to 1808, when John Blandy came to Madeira, initially due to poor health, as confirmed by a letter of introduction written in London and sent to three wine merchants also from that city, who settled in Madeira. In 1811, together with his brothers Thomas and George, he founded a shipping company dealing primarily with wine trade, thus creating the foundations of the family business and the entire history of wine from Madeira. Very rapid development soon enabled the export of wines to Europe, as far as Russia, and also to North America. Over the years, John Blandy bought small properties on the island, creating the now known The Blandy's Wine Lodge - one of the oldest wineries on the island, which, apart from its historical heritage, create very unique wines.

The owners’ instinct to run the business has allowed them to survive all the plagues and turmoil of history, with a primary goal: to leave the company for future generations in a stronger state than when we received it. Over the years, Blandy’s decided to join the Madeira Wine Company in 1925, a group of wine producers from Madeira, to maximize exports while reducing costs. Then, in 1989, they contacted the Symington family (port producers since the 19th century) to continue expanding into global markets. In 2000, the company introduced its first vintage wine (Colheita) from Madeira, and then introduced younger wines to meet market expectations.

Blandy's Harvest 2016 Madeira (Portugal) /19%/ 0.5l

A wonderful Madeira made from 100% Malmsey. Aged in the traditional Madeira “Canteiro” method, where after an initial period of maturation in the attic, where it is warmed by the sun, it is gradually transported to cooler rooms. The method was invented almost by accident, when a ship with barrels once passed the equator four times, the wine was heated by the high temperatures of the tropics, then returned to the island and after tasting it was found to have acquired characteristics that have greatly enriched it and shaped the style of Madeira wines today. Quite complex on the nose, full of aromas of dried fruit, with nuances of tea leaves and a touch of vanilla. Very balanced on the palate, with additional accents of mature brandy and spices. The finish is long and somewhat subtle, with notes of honey and oak.

It tastes best when served at a temperature of 14-16 degrees. It is worth doing this to get to know the richness of flavors and aromas combined with the finesse of their presentation. In culinary combinations, it works well with desserts based on dark chocolate, with the addition of dried fruit, honey and spices.