BARBEITO Madeira Rainwater Reserva NV HALF LITRE 18%abv (Medium Dry)

Description

IN BRIEF
Barbeito Madeira Rainwater Reserva is a refined fortified wine that beautifully captures the essence of the unique terroir of Madeira. Primarily crafted from Tinta Negra, this wine reflects the lighter style associated with "Rainwater" wines. It showcases a lovely amber hue, signifying its age and the rich flavours developed during maturation. The nose presents enchanting aromas of dried fruits, including apricots and figs, complemented by citrus zest, caramel, and a hint of nuttiness. On the palate, it is smooth and well-rounded, with refreshing acidity that balances its sweetness, revealing layers of honey, orange peel, and subtle spices. Rated 16.5 points by Jancis Robinson and 89 points by Decanter, it pairs beautifully with seafood, salads, and mild cheeses.

ABOUT THIS WINE
Barbeito Madeira Rainwater Reserva is a charming and versatile fortified wine that captures the essence of the unique terroir of the Madeira island. Known for its delicate balance of sweetness and acidity, this Madeira is crafted primarily from Tinta Negra and showcases a lighter style often associated with "Rainwater" wines.

Typically, Rainwater Reserva is presented in a beautiful amber hue, hinting at its age and the rich flavours developed during the aging process. On the nose, it offers enticing aromas of dried fruits, particularly apricots and figs, complemented by notes of citrus zest, caramel, and a hint of nuttiness, creating an inviting bouquet that tantalizes the senses.

On the palate, Barbeito Madeira Rainwater Reserva is smooth and well-rounded, with a refreshing acidity that balances its sweetness. The wine reveals complex flavours of honey, orange peel, and a touch of vanilla, along with subtle spice notes that enhance its depth. The finish is clean and lingering, showcasing the fine acidity and slight salinity that are characteristic of high-quality Madeira.

This Madeira is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. It can be enjoyed as an aperitif or paired with a range of foods, including seafood, salads, and mild cheeses. It's also a delightful companion for desserts, particularly those featuring nuts or fruit.

Barbeito Madeira Rainwater Reserva is a testament to the craftsmanship and heritage of wine production on the island of Madeira. Its harmonious character and lively profile make it a fantastic choice for both casual sipping and special occasions, inviting wine lovers to experience the beauty and tradition of this exceptional fortified wine.

JANCIS ROBINSON 16.5 points
inta Negra and Verdelho. At least five years in barrel. RS c 90 g/l.
Nutty, spicy golden apricot without the sweetness. Lively and relatively light – likely to be a good food wine. A touch of bitter orange on the finish. More like a powerful skin-fermented white than a madeira, with much less perceptible sweetness than the numbers indicate. (JH)

DECANTER 89 points
Tasted by: Richard Mayson (at Expert's Choice Madeira Tasting, 07 Sep 2022) Part of Expert's choice: Madeira
Drinking Window: 2022 - 2122
Mostly Tinta Negra with some Verdelho, aged for five years in wood: pale gold, soft and aromatic with dried apricot flavours and a fresh finish (medium-dry). Light and easy-going in style, hence the designation ‘Rainwater’. A good aperitif, with salted nuts, olives, consommé, and Comté cheese.

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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.