NYC, Long Island and The Hamptons Receive Free Delivery on Orders $300+

1950 Barbeito Malvasia Madeira

1950 Barbeito Malvasia Madeira

Wine Details for 1950 Barbeito Malvasia Madeira

Type of Wine Madeira
Varietal Malvasia : When anyone in the wine industry thinks that the world of wine could not be any more fascinating and complex, Malvasia enters the conversation. Malvasia is an ancient family of noble grapes rather than a single variety; a well-traveled family that has adapted to numerous environments over the course of its long existence. With at least 15 official sub-varieties, the multifaceted Malvasia grape family has the flexibility to be fashioned into a myriad of styles of dry, sparkling and sweet and produced into any feasible color. Its contribution to viticulture around the world has been tremendous and its history of success dates back thousands of years.

Believed to be of Greek origin, the Malvasia family has been commercially imported to the Mediterranean for more than 2000 years. The name, Malvasia, is speculated to be a derivation of the coastal Greek town of Monemvasia, where the Venetians had a strategically located and important trading port during the time of their empire. This early trade route helped to propel Malvasia into a prospering and lucrative luxury item which became incredibly omnipresent in Europe by the time the Middle Ages arrived. Europeans were so enamored by the varieties, that wine shops were named Malvasie to better alert consumers to the sale of this ubiquitous wine.

Malvasia thrives in dry climates and are grown in numerous winemaking regions, especially in the Mediterranean, where maritime and coastal influences brings beneficial moisture to the rather arid growing conditions. If grown in damp locations the vine can be prone to developing various grape diseases such as rot and mildew. The rootstock is moderately vigorous and capable of producing high yields if not kept in check. It is typically planted on hillside terraces in Portugal, Spain, Greece and Sicily. There seems to be a special viticultural association with Malvasia and islands as some of the most distinctive examples of the wine come from these maritime environments.

Given the broad expanse of the Malvasia family, generalizations about Malvasia wine are difficult to pin-point. Most varieties of Malvasia are derived from Malvasia Bianca which is characterized by its deep color, noted aromas of peaches, apricots and white currants and the presence of residual sugar. Red Malvasia, on the other hand, is recognized for its richness and chocolate notes.

Malvasia is used in a varietal expression named Malmsey that is heated and oxidized after fermentation to create a unique style of wine. It is characterized by its dark color (depending on the type of Malvasia) and rich, ripe and nutty flavors. Fortified Malvasia such as Madeira are noted for their intense smokiness and sharp acidity. The Douro winegrowing region of Portugal relies heavily on Malvasia for its world renowned production of White Port wines. Vin Santo is perhaps another recognizable style, which typically features white Malvasia and the Trebbiano grape, and fashioned into a dessert wine. Off Sicily’s northeastern coast the varietal is known as Lipari and enjoys its own DOC (Designation of Controlled Origin) Malvasia delle Lipari. Over the years, many fine examples have been produced here. Unfortunately the region never fully recovered from the devastating impact of phylloxera and the sweet, fresh and aromatic wines of the region are now rarities.

In its youth, Malvasia wines are characterized by their heavy body that is often described as “round” or “fat” and soft textured mouthfeel. As Malvasia ages, the wines tend to take on more nutty aromas and flavors. The possibilities are endless for this ancient family of cultivars that has certainly placed its name in the history of winemaking, endearing winegrowers to its adaptability and consumers to its charm.
Country Portugal : Viticulture has existed on the Iberian Peninsula (home to modern day Spain and Portugal) for thousands of years, dating as far back as 2000 BC. The country of Portugal, with its 250 native grape varieties, has a long and colorful history of viticulture and is renowned for its production of the world-famous fortified wines of Port and Madeira. Beyond these rich and intriguing styles, the country has become diversified, and is now being recognized for its refreshing whites of Vinho Verde, sparkling wines from Obidos and the warm reds from Douro and Dao. In the past few decades, Portugal has enjoyed somewhat of a revival in terms of viticulture and is becoming increasingly popular for its many wine styles.



Portugal may not compare to neighboring Spain’s production rate, but in terms of quality, it can do more than hold a candle. Portugal’s production of Port is, without a doubt, its fame to claim and has brought global recognition; however Its recent renaissance and its incredible array of wine styles has helped to only bring more attention to the country’s wine industry. Its annual production of 600 million liters of wine from its 195,000 hectares under vine is an incredible feat for one of the smaller wine producing countries.



Many of the key grape varieties cultivated in Portugal are considered native. Touriga Nacional, Trincadeira, Baga and Tinta Roriz lead the way and are the most popular and important grapes grown. Portugal’s temperate, predominately maritime climate and portfolio of terroirs is greatly conducive to vinification. Its many mountains, river valleys and limestone-rich coastal hills allows for a rich and diverse range of soils. The Atlantic influences the growing season which sees high levels of rainfall allowing for high yields. This can also be a detriment and an increased risk of fungal diseases. Coastal region winegrowers has have worked diligently to cultivated ventilated sites as well as high trellising methods to keep the grapes from developing bunch rot.



The international wine market is becoming more cognizant of the many great wines coming from Portugal, from the reds of Douro and Dao to the red, white and rose from Vinho Verde, sparkling renditions from native varietals to the unprecedented and world-famous Port wines. International varieties (most of French origins) such as Syrah and Merlot have taken root in Portuguese soil. Despite the arrival of these varieties making a splash, and intrigue, Portugal’s long tradition of winemaking in the region has allowed winemakers to maintain a certain uniqueness in their wines. The Old Word nation of Portugal commands global respect and recognition for its many accomplishments and contributions to the world of wine.


Region Madeira

Overview

Producer Barbeito

Need Help Finding the right wine?

Your personal wine consultant will assist you with buying, managing your collection, investing in wine, entertaining and more.

loader
Loading...