Wine information:
For 200 years, Blandys Madeira has been synonymous with quality Madeira wine. The Blandys are unique in being the only family of all the original founders of the Madeira wine trade to still own and manage their own original wine company. The family has played a leading role in the development of Madeira wine throughout its long history and members of the family continue to live on Madeira, maintaining a tradition that goes back to 1811. After fermentation, and subsequent fortification, Blandy’s Harvest Malmsey was aged in seasoned American oak casks in the traditional ‘Canteiro’ system, whereby the wine is gently heated by warm air in the lofts of the company’s south-facing lodge in Funchal. Over the years the casks are transferred from the top floor to the middle floor and eventually to the ground floor where it is cooler. The wine is regularly racked during the ageing process and is finally bottled when the desired balance of maturity is reached. Harvest (or Colheita) is a single vintage Madeira that has been aged in cask for at least seven years.
Tasting Notes:
Blandys 2004 Harvest Malmsey has an amber colour with golden green reflections. Characteristic bouquet of Madeira with dried fruits, tea, toffee and spices. Rich and full bodied with notes of vanilla, honey and chocolate. Sweet and smooth on the palate, with a long and fresh aftertaste.
Food & Wine match:
Blandys Harvest Madeira is fined and does not require decanting. It is an excellent accompaniment to rich desserts and cheese. It has been bottled when ready for drinking and will keep for several months after opening.
from www.farehamwinedirect.co.uk