BARBEITO Madeira Malvasia Reserva 5 Year Old NV HALF LITRE 19%abv (Sweet)

Description

IN BRIEF
Barbeito Madeira Malvasia Reserva 5 Year Old is a remarkable wine crafted by Vinhos Barbeito, under the guidance of Ricardo de Freitas, the third generation of the family. This Malvasia exemplifies the winery’s commitment to authentic canteiro wines, undergoing natural cask maturation without the artificial estufagem method, resulting in a fresh, vibrant profile. The wine is awarded 93 points by James Suckling, who praises its enticing aromas of butterscotch and excellent balance of nutty oxidative flavours with crisp acidity. Jancis Robinson rated it 16.5 points, noting its orangey-gold colour and complex notes of dried flowers and chamomile. This lush fortified wine is perfect for pairing with rich desserts or enjoyed on its own, making it a delightful choice for any occasion.

ABOUT THIS WINE
Barbeito Madeira Malvasia Reserva 5 Year Old is a beautifully crafted fortified wine that showcases the rich and diverse characteristics of the Malvasia grape, one of the traditional varietals used in Madeira production. Known for its sweetness and complexity, this Malvasia exemplifies the artistry and craftsmanship of Barbeito, a distinguished producer on the island of Madeira.

This wine typically displays a deep amber colour, a hallmark of its aging process. On the nose, it offers an alluring bouquet of aromatic notes, including dried fruits such as figs and raisins, honey, and delicious caramel. Subtle hints of toffee, nuts, and warm spices add further depth, creating an inviting and complex aromatic profile.

On the palate, Barbeito Malvasia Reserva is rich and luscious, with a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. Flavours of ripe stone fruits and caramelised sugar unfold alongside a delightful nuttiness and a touch of citrus zest, resulting in a well-rounded and satisfying mouthfeel. The wine’s smooth texture is complemented by a long, lingering finish that echoes the intricate flavours, leaving a warm and pleasant aftertaste.

This Malvasia is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. It complements rich desserts such as chocolate tarts and crème brûlée, while also being a delightful match for blue cheeses and roasted nuts.

Overall, Barbeito Madeira Malvasia Reserva 5 Year Old is a stunning representation of the potential of the Malvasia grape, showcasing the depth and quality achieved through careful aging. This fortified wine is perfect for those seeking a sweet yet complex experience, and it embodies the rich history and tradition of Madeira winemaking. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with food, it promises to deliver a memorable tasting experience.

JAMES SUCKLING 93 points
Aromas of butterscotch. Incredibly fresh and subtly herbal, this has a lovely balance between nutty oxidative flavors and the crisp acidity characteristic to sercial. Harmonious with a penetrating finish that’s fresh and long. Drink now or hold. - Jacobo García Andrade

JAMES SUCKLING 93 points
Aromas of butterscotch. Incredibly fresh and subtly herbal, this has a lovely balance between nutty oxidative flavors and the crisp acidity characteristic to sercial. Harmonious with a penetrating finish that’s fresh and long. Drink now or hold.
Jacobo García Andrade

JANCIS ROBINSON 16.5 points
Orangey gold. Nutty, stemmy nose, chamomile. Sweet and with a flavour of dried flowers. Interesting, pure, just a little stemmy? Sweet but dry. Made by a master blender. (JH)

THE WINE ADVOCATE 88 points
Reviewed by: Neal Martin
The Malvasia 5-Year-Old Reserva is not actually imported into the United States. It has an enticing, seductive bouquet of creme brulee, hazelnut and lemon curd. The palate is well-balanced with a viscous texture and crescendos towards the nutty finish infused with mango, marmalade and toffee apple. It is just a little obvious compared to other 5-Year-Old Reservas.

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ABOUT THIS PRODUCER
Barbeito Madeira is a renowned winery located on the beautiful island of Madeira, Portugal, famous for its exceptional fortified wines. Founded in 1948 by the Barbeito family, the estate has a rich heritage and is celebrated for its commitment to quality, innovation, and the preservation of traditional winemaking techniques specific to the unique microclimate of Madeira.

The vineyards of Barbeito are situated on steep slopes across the island, where volcanic soils and a warm oceanic climate create ideal conditions for cultivating indigenous grape varieties. The estate primarily focuses on traditional Madeira varietals such as Sercial, Verdelho, Bual, and Malvasia, each contributing distinct characteristics to the wines produced. Barbeito is particularly noted for its meticulous attention to detail in vineyard management, ensuring that grapes are harvested at their optimal ripeness for the production of high-quality wines.

Barbeito Madeira is celebrated for its range of fortified wines, which are known for their complexity, depth, and remarkable ability to age. The winemaking process includes the artisanal technique of “estufagem," where the wine is gently heated to develop its characteristic flavors and aromas. The result is a portfolio of wines with rich profiles, ranging from dry and crisp to luscious and sweet, appealing to a diverse array of palates.

Among Barbeito’s notable offerings are its age-stated Madeiras, which showcase the estate's commitment to quality and craftsmanship. These wines are marked by intricate layers of dried fruit, nuts, and subtle spice, often complemented by refreshing acidity that balances their richness. Barbeito Madeira has received numerous awards and accolades, solidifying its reputation as a leader in the production of fine Madeira wines.

As Barbeito continues to innovate and expand its range, it remains dedicated to honoring the island's winemaking heritage while also pushing the boundaries of traditional practices. Each bottle encapsulates a story of craftsmanship, passion, and the unique terroir of Madeira, inviting wine lovers to explore the enchanting flavors and history of this remarkable island. Whether enjoyed as an aperitif, paired with dessert, or savored on its own, wines from Barbeito Madeira celebrate the artistry and tradition of one of the world's most distinctive winemaking regions.