Justinos Verdelho 10 Years

Justino's Madeira dates to 1870 and is one of the oldest producers and exporters of Madeira wine, with the largest stock of this fortified style on the island. This 10 year bottling is made from Verdelho, the medium-dry member of Madeira's four noble grapes, grown on the volcanic soils that rise steeply above the Atlantic. Fermentation is arrested by fortification to set the wine on the drier side of the Madeira range, and the wine is then aged oxidatively in oak casks. Slow exposure to warmth and air, the hallmark of Madeira ageing, converts alcohol to acetaldehyde and develops the toasted, nutty depth the style is known for, while the island's bright natural acidity is preserved through the long maturation. The colour is golden amber. The nose is delicate, with ripe fruit, honey, orange peel and a floral edge over roasted nuts. The palate balances a touch of honeyed richness against firm acidity, with dried apricot and citrus peel leading to a long, dry finish with a faint smoky note. Serve at 13 to 15 degrees in a small glass. It works as an aperitif or with savoury food.