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Travel Guide to Madeira Wine Region
Madeira is considered to be one of the rootstocks of the Portuguese wine industry. Vines were first brought to Madeira by English settlers in the 15th century. Through their focus on viticulture and determination on growing excellent vines, the vineyards soon covered a large part of the Madeira landscape. At first, Madeira winemakers produced still white and red wines, however since the 18th century, this wine region has become internationally renowned specifically for its fortified wines. For true wine lovers and appreciators, Madeira provides the opportunity to walk down winemaking memory lane. Combine this with the exquisite natural beauty and it makes Madeira a place that should not be missed out on.
Find out about Wine Tasting & Tours in Madeira to enjoy if you visit the region.
Read more about Wineries in Madeira to visit.
Discover breathtaking Portuguese island trough its wines, gastronomy and heritage. Follow the guide to learn more about:
The birthplace of Madeira wines
The Birthplace of Madeira Wine - one of the most appreciated fortified wine in the world
Visit the Madeira wine region and enjoy wines that have achieved fame through the ages. The region offers wine lovers a wide range of excellent and high-quality wines. Treat yourself to the world-known Madeira fortified wines and visit some of the best wine houses in Portugal.
Vines from Pergolas
The Madeira wine region forms part of the DO Madeira, DO Madeirenses as well as IG Terras Madeirenses. The region is known for the production of fortified wine named after the place where it is made - Madeira wine. The vines of the Madeira wine region are mainly grown on traditional pergolas. From these pergolas, the bunches hang low where they are shaded from the sun by the leaves. This method produces high yields of grapes that have a high level of acidity. This feature of the grapes is what makes Madeira wines so unique.
Other remarkable winemaking areas within the Madeira winemaking region include Seixal and São Vicente. There you can find Espumante -- a Portuguese fizzy, sparking, champagne-like wine. In recent times Espumante has become extremely popular with wine lovers as islands sparklings are always something unusual. This Portuguese sparkling wine has flavours of brioche, toast and biscuits.
The wines of Madeira are known for having several different taste profiles. Despite this, most of these wines carry the flavours of sugar, caramel, peaches, walnuts, oranges and hazelnuts. The DOC Madeira is most well-known for its world-famous dessert or fortified wine. These wines are available in various levels of sweetness. The Madeira dessert wines that are considered to be the best, are those that are aged for a relatively short amount of time.
Grape Varieties
Red varieties: Tinta Negra, Bastardo.
White varieties: Sercial, Verdelho, Boal, Malvasia, Terrantez, Listrao.
How do Madeira Wines Taste?
Wines that are made to suit the palate of all wine lovers and drinkers.
On Madeira, one will find both: blended wines and single varietal wines. The white wines of Madeira can be described as fresh and delicate. These wines are very easy to drink and are perfect when served as an aperitif or when paired with a light, white fish.
Madeira rose wine is another example of excellent wine produced on this island. Usually, this wine is very aromatic and has notes of berries and cherries. It can be described as crispy wine with a balanced level of acidity.
Madeira fortified wine is produced in certain areas. This wine is represented in a range of styles depending on the vinification specificities (adding vinous spirit, heating process, aging, etc.). There are dry, semi-dry, and sweet (namely, "rich") fortified wines on offer. The unique taste of the Madeira fortified wines comes from the process of repeatedly heating and cooling the wine. This process results in the wine having flavours of toffee, caramel, nuts, and stewed fruits.
Madeira Wine Region Map
You can also check out our interactive map of the Madeira Wine Region to discover wineries with open cellar doors.
Places to Visit in Madeira
Porto Santo - The Golden Island
Porto Santo is an island emerging from the blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean. This picture-perfect island is well known for its stretches of white beaches and turquoise waters. The island is a haven for visitors at any time of the year because of its excellent and warm climate. Besides the beaches, Porto Santo has a number of other attractions for visitors. These include the Infante Gardens, the Christopher Columbus Museum, and the Largo do Pelourinho city square. Porto Santo is the perfect tourist destination with a range of offerings for all visitors.
Prazeres - A Small Town with Big Charm
Prazeres is a small town in Madeira. This small and quaint Portuguese town is located near Calheta. At first glance, Prazeres might seem unassuming but don’t be fooled! Prazeres has become a bustling Portuguese village with many incredible restaurants and bars. One of the greatest features of Prazeres is that it does not become too hot in the Summer, making it perfect for long scenic walks.
Some of the most popular attractions in Prazeres are the Levada Nova, the Bikulture biking park, the Igreja de Sao Bento and the Jardim das Plantas Indigenas da Madeira. There are many accommodation options with breathtaking views of the sparkling blue ocean. Prazeres provides the perfect escape from the city and should be included in everyone’s Madeira itineraries.
Hidden Gem of Madeira - Travel Into the Sky
Escape the busy tourist regions of Madeira and take a trip to the Achadas da Cruz cable car. A trip on this beautiful cable car brings visitors to the beach of Faja de Quebrado Nova. Until recently, the Faja de Quebrado Nova beach was only accessible by boat. As a result of this, it is still relatively remote and overlooked by most visitors. Pack a picnic and lose yourself in this incredibly beautiful area. The pebbled beaches, blue waters and spectacular surrounding nature are the perfect place to recharge in nature.
Nature is the best therapy - Discover Natural Beauty of Madeira
The natural beauty of the Madeira region is one of its greatest attractions. The island has an incredibly wide range of fauna and flora. The natural environment of Madeira is so spectacular that is has been classified as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. Visit Madeira and lose yourself in the natural surroundings.
Laurisilva of Madeira
The world’s largest laurel forest
The Laurisilva of Madeira is located within the Madeira National Park. This area is the largest surviving laurel forest making it a very unique site to visit. When visiting the Laurisilva of Madeira, start at the Ribeiro Frio and take an easy stroll along the Levada walk. This walk ends on a natural balcony overlooking the beautiful surrounding forest areas. The Laurisilva of Madeira provides the perfect chance to experience nature untouched by human intervention.
Pico Ruivo
Hike the highest point of Madeira
The Pico Ruivo is the highest peak of the mountains of Madeira. This peak is located at 1862m above sea level. A hike to the peak is the perfect activity for nature lovers and for those who enjoy spending time in the outdoors. At Pico Ruivo, there are two different hiking routes. The most popular route is the more challenging hike. This route is not for the faint-hearted but provides incredible views of the surrounding areas. Advanced hikers can enjoy this route which takes approximately 6 hours to finish. The second hiking route is less challenging and takes approximately 3 hours to complete. Grab your water bottle and enjoy the Pico Ruivo adventure.
Find the best Madeira Wine Tour Guides and embark on unforgettable Guided Wine Tours in Madeira.
Madeira Island Gastronomy
The Madeira wine region is not only the perfect wine tourism destination but is also a heaven for food lovers. The local cuisine boasts delicious flavours. These unique tastes have been passed through generations since the time of the local peasants. Visit Madeira and tantalise your taste buds.
Espetada - Mouth-watering skewered meat
Espetada can be considered the official dish of Madeira. This delicious meal is the perfect dish for those who love meat. Espetada is made with chunky cuts of beef that are skewered onto a stick. Before the meat is skewered it is marinated in salt and garlic and additional flavour. The skewered meat is then cooked over a hot fire. When visiting Madeira, you will find Espetada on almost all menus. It is best enjoyed with thick slices of bread and paired with an excellent local red wine.
Bolo de Mel - The cake of the Madeira Islands
Bolo de Mel is a traditional cake from the Madeira region. The locals of Madeira consider Bolo de Mel to be the oldest desert of the region. This delicious cake is made using cinnamon, honey, almonds and walnuts. Traditionally, Bolo de Mel would be eaten at Christmas but not it is enjoyed at any time of the year. A tip when visiting Madeira – when eating your Bolo de Mel, don’t cut the cake, but rather tear off small pieces and eat these by hand.
What kind of wine is Madeira?
Madeira - a fortified wine produced on the Portuguese Island of Madeira, which is located approximately 300 miles off the coast of Morocco - has become quite popular.
What are the 4 types of Madeira wine?
There are four styles of Madeira, which get their names from the white wine grapes used in them: Sercial, Verdelho, Bual, and Malvasia. In this order, they range from dry to sweet.
What makes Madeira so special?
Madeira is an idyllic subtropical island that offers something for everyone- whether you wish to explore its stunning hikes, do deep sea fishing, go scuba diving, sample some local nightlife or all of the above. It's one of the best kept secrets in travel and should not be missed!
What is the best type of Madeira wine?
The best type of Madeira wine varies based on personal preference, with options ranging from dry to sweet. Popular types include Sercial (dry), Verdelho (medium-dry), Bual (medium-sweet), and Malmsey (sweet).
What wines are made in Madeira?
Madeira is known for producing fortified wines made from various grape varieties. The main grape varieties used in Madeira wine production include Sercial, Verdelho, Bual (Boal), and Malvasia (Malmsey). These grapes are used to create a range of styles, from dry and crisp to rich and sweet, offering a diverse selection for wine enthusiasts.
What is the difference between sercial and Malmsey?
Sercial and Malmsey are two different styles of Madeira wines that vary in sweetness and flavor profile. Sercial is a dry style of Madeira with high acidity, offering refreshing and citrusy flavors. On the other hand, Malmsey is a sweet style of Madeira known for its rich and luscious characteristics, with flavors of caramel, dried fruits, and honey.
Is Madeira wine better than Port?
Madeira wine and Port are two distinct fortified wines with their own unique characteristics and styles. It ultimately comes down to personal preference as to which is considered "better." Madeira wine is known for its longevity, complexity, and wide range of styles, while Port is known for its richness, sweetness, and variety of styles. Both wines have their own dedicated enthusiasts and can offer exceptional drinking experiences.
How should you drink Madeira wine?
Madeira wine is typically enjoyed at room temperature or slightly chilled. It can be served as an aperitif, with dessert, or as a digestif. Madeira's rich flavors and high acidity make it versatile for pairing with a range of dishes, including cheeses, nuts, chocolate, and even savory dishes like roasted meats or stews.
Does Madeira have good wine?
Yes, Madeira is highly regarded for its exceptional wine, known for its unique production process, rich flavor profile, and aging potential.
Why does Madeira last so long?
The unique production process of Madeira wines, involving heating and oxidizing the wine, enhances its durability and allows it to age for extended periods, resulting in exceptional longevity.
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Patricia
Wine Tours Madeira is the first company specialized in Wine Tours in Madeira island and is run by...
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