Henriques and Henriques Madeira Finest Medium Dry - Meio Seco - 5 Years Old

Henriques & Henriques Madeira Finest Medium Dry - Meio Seco - 5 Years Old: A Taste of Tradition

Hailing from the volcanic island of Madeira, Henriques & Henriques' 5 Year Old Finest Medium Dry - Meio Seco is a delectable introduction to the world of Madeira. This fortified wine boasts a unique ageing process that imbues it with complex flavours and a long-lasting finish.

A Legacy in Every Bottle

The Henriques family has been crafting Madeira wines since the 15th century. In 1850, Joaquim Henriques solidified their place as leading producers by establishing the Henriques & Henriques firm. Today, they remain the largest independent Madeira house, and their commitment to quality shines through in every bottle of their 5 Year Old Finest Medium Dry.

Aromatic Journey

On the nose, the Henriques & Henriques 5 Year Old Finest Medium Dry greets you with a delightful bouquet. Gentle oak influences mingle with hints of dried apricots, offering whispers of honey and citrus zest. This interplay of aromas is both inviting and intriguing, drawing you in for a taste.

Elegant on the Palate

The first sip reveals a surprisingly dry and elegant character. The influence of oak becomes more prominent, lending a smooth and polished texture. Balanced acidity cuts through the richness, ensuring a refreshing liveliness that keeps the palate engaged. Hints of dried fruit, particularly apricot and fig, emerge alongside a subtle touch of cinnamon, adding complexity to the flavour profile.

A Lingering Impression

The finish is long-lasting, leaving a pleasant warmth and a lingering echo of the fruit and spice notes. This characteristic makes the Henriques & Henriques 5 Year Old Finest Medium Dry a perfect after-dinner drink or a contemplative sip on its own.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile Madeira can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are some suggestions to elevate your experience:

• Chilled: Serve the wine slightly chilled (around 10-12°C) to accentuate its refreshing acidity. This temperature is ideal as an apéritif before a meal.
• Room Temperature: Allow the wine to come to room temperature (around 18-20°C) to appreciate the full range of its flavours. This is perfect for enjoying after a meal or alongside cheese.
• Warmed (Optional): In the true spirit of Madeira, you can also enjoy this wine slightly warmed (around 40-45°C). This intensifies the nutty and caramel notes, creating a richer drinking experience.

Food Pairings

The Henriques & Henriques 5 Year Old Finest Medium Dry's unique flavour profile makes it a versatile pairing option for a variety of dishes. Here are some suggestions to tantalise your taste buds:

• Appetisers: The wine's dry style and refreshing acidity make it a perfect partner for salty and savoury starters. Try it with cured meats, olives, smoked salmon, or grilled vegetables.
• Main Courses: The Madeira's richness and subtle sweetness can complement a variety of main courses. Consider roasted chicken, pork with caramelised onions, or creamy mushroom risotto.
• Cheese: Pair the wine with a selection of cheeses, particularly hard cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan. The contrast between the wine's acidity and the cheese's creaminess creates a delightful harmony.
• Desserts: While not traditionally a dessert wine, the Henriques & Henriques 5 Year Old Finest Medium Dry can hold its own against fruit-based desserts that are not overly sweet. Try it with apple pie, pear tart, or a crème brûlée.

Cigar Pairing

For a truly indulgent experience, consider pairing the Henriques & Henriques 5 Year Old Finest Medium Dry with a mild to medium-bodied cigar. The wine's acidity will help to cleanse the palate between puffs, while the oaky and nutty characteristics will complement the cigar's flavour profile.

In Conclusion

The Henriques & Henriques 5 Year Old Finest Medium Dry - Meio Seco is a superb introduction to the world of Madeira. Its complex flavour profile, refreshing acidity, and long-lasting finish make it a versatile wine that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of foods. So, why not uncork a bottle and embark on a delightful taste adventure?