Barbeito 10 Years Old Verdelho Reserva Velha

Barbeito is based on the volcanic island of Madeira, where Ricardo Diogo Freitas, third generation of the family, made his name by breaking with local tradition, notably by not adding sugar. This Reserva is made from Verdelho, a classic Madeira grape that gives a medium dry style with the very high acidity the wine needs. The vines grow on steep terraced basalt soils in a warm, humid Atlantic climate. The wine is aged in cask for ten years, the label noting 120 months in barrel. During that time it matures slowly under a controlled oxidative regime, warmed in the island's cellars, which builds the nutty, honeyed and lightly caramelised character typical of aged Madeira while the natural acidity keeps it fresh and precise. The colour is a bright, clear gold. The nose shows delicate citrus peel intertwined with floral and honey notes, moving into roasted nuts and caramel with air. The palate is off dry and concentrated, the developed dried fruit and nut flavours balanced by a firm line of acidity through a long, savoury finish. Serve lightly chilled at around 14C in a small tulip glass.