Henriques and Henriques 10 Year Old Malvasia Madeira Sweet

Henriques & Henriques 10 Year Old Malvasia Madeira: A Journey Through Decadent Flavour

Fortified wine enthusiasts, rejoice! The Henriques & Henriques 10 Year Old Malvasia Madeira offers a decadent exploration of aged sweetness and complex character. This exquisite nectar, produced on the sun-drenched island of Madeira, boasts a rich heritage and a flavour profile that's guaranteed to tantalise your taste buds.

A Wine Aged to Perfection

Madeira's unique production method, known as 'estufagem,' sets it apart from other fortified wines. After fermentation, the Henriques & Henriques Malmsey spends ten years ageing in warm chambers, mimicking the effect of long sea voyages that once transported Madeira across the globe. This process intensifies the wine's concentration, fostering the development of those deep, nutty, and caramelised notes that define a well-aged Malmsey.

Unveiling the Sensory Experience

Appearance: The first glimpse of this Madeira reveals a beautiful amber colour, hinting at the treasures hidden within.

Aroma: As you raise the glass to your nose, a symphony of aromas unfolds. Expect a heady mix of dried fruits like figs, raisins, and orange peel, intertwined with hints of toasted walnuts, coffee, and butterscotch. A touch of spice and a whisper of sea salt add further intrigue.

Palate: The first sip of the Henriques & Henriques Malmsey is a revelation. The wine boasts a full-bodied texture, enveloping your palate with its luscious sweetness. Despite its richness, a balancing acidity cuts through the sweetness, creating a harmonious and dynamic experience. The flavours echo the aromas, with notes of dried fruit compote, toffee, caramel, and toasted nuts dancing across the tongue. A touch of minerality lingers on the finish, adding a welcome complexity.

Food Pairings to Elevate Your Enjoyment

The Henriques & Henriques 10 Year Old Malvasia Madeira is a versatile dessert wine, perfectly suited to complement a variety of sweet treats. Here are some ideal food pairings to unlock its full potential:

• Classic Pairings: Pair this Madeira with traditional British desserts like Christmas pudding, rich fruit cake, or treacle tart. The wine's sweetness mirrors the desserts' richness, creating a harmonious and indulgent experience.
• Creamy Delights:  The Malmsey's luscious texture complements creamy desserts like crème brûlée, panna cotta, or cheesecake beautifully. The acidity cuts through the creaminess, creating a delightful textural contrast.
• Chocolate Symphony: For a truly decadent experience, explore pairing the Madeira with dark chocolate desserts. The wine's richness and nutty notes harmonise perfectly with the chocolate's bitterness, creating a luxurious flavour bomb.
• Fruity Fusion:  Don't be afraid to experiment with fruit-based desserts. The wine's acidity pairs well with the sweetness of fruit tarts, crumbles, or even a cheeseboard featuring blue cheeses like Stilton.

Beyond Dessert:

While the Henriques & Henriques Malmsey shines as a dessert wine, its versatility extends beyond the final course. Here are some unexpected pairings to explore:

• Cheeseboard Companion:  For a unique cheese pairing, explore mature blue cheeses or nutty hard cheeses like Comté. The wine's sweetness and richness balance the cheese's pungency, creating a surprisingly delightful combination.
• A Toast to Special Occasions: The Madeira's rich character makes it a perfect choice for celebratory toasts. Its depth and complexity elevate any special occasion.

Storing Your Treasure

Madeira is known for its exceptional longevity. Once opened, the Henriques & Henriques 10 Year Old Malmsey can be enjoyed for several weeks with proper storage.  Keep the bottle upright in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight.  A wine saver pump can also help to minimise oxidation and extend the wine's freshness.

In Conclusion

The Henriques & Henriques 10 Year Old Malvasia Madeira is a testament to the art of winemaking. This exquisite nectar offers a captivating journey through flavour, with its aged sweetness, complex aromas, and rich texture. With its versatility in food pairings, this Madeira promises to be a treasured addition to your wine collection,  providing countless opportunities to indulge and celebrate. So, uncork a bottle, savour the experience, and let the Henriques & Henriques Malmsey transport you to a world of decadent delight.