1976 Henriques & Henriques Terrantez Madeira, Portugal

Old gold wine. Aroma to dried fruits, namely raisins, light vanilla and some wood. Complex taste between dry and sweet. This is a perfectly balanced wine. Long finish.

Henriques & Henriques

21% alc./vol., 72 g/L residual sugar.

The 1976 Henriques & Henriques Terrantez Madeira is a remarkable expression of one of the island’s most prized varieties. Produced by the renowned Henriques & Henriques winery, this Madeira exemplifies the intricate aging process that defines the region's fortified wines. Henriques & Henriques, with its centuries-old history, has long been celebrated for crafting some of the finest Madeira wines, and this bottle is no exception, offering exceptional depth, complexity, and character.

Terrantez, a rare grape variety on the island of Madeira, is known for its vibrant acidity and ability to develop exceptional complexity with age. The 1976 vintage has been aged through the traditional ‘estufagem’ method, where the wine is slowly heated to simulate the conditions of long sea voyages, allowing the wine to evolve and develop those signature Madeira flavors—nutty, caramelized, and oxidative notes.

In the glass, this Madeira has a deep amber color, a visual reflection of its time spent maturing in oak casks. The nose is rich and complex, with aromas of toasted almonds, dried fruits, and a hint of honeycomb. As you delve deeper, there’s a subtle note of citrus zest and a touch of tobacco, all underpinned by that characteristic Madeira minerality. On the palate, it’s smooth and velvety, with a fine balance between the wine’s rich sweetness and crisp acidity. Flavors of caramel, dried figs, and roasted nuts are layered with a delicate salinity and a touch of spice, while the finish is long, warming, and exceptionally satisfying.

Perfect for sipping on its own, the 1976 Terrantez is a true connoisseur's wine. It also pairs wonderfully with rich, flavorful foods like pâté, foie gras, and blue cheeses, as well as desserts like crème brûlée or dark chocolate.