2015 Malmsey

The 2015 Malmsey is our nod to the underrated sweet wines of Madeira. In the 17th century, Portuguese naval ships exploring the new world would stock up on fortified wine from the island of Madeira off the coast of Portugal. Stored in the ships’ hulls over many months, the wine “cooked” as they sailed through changing temperatures. The style became popular, and producers on Madeira built estufas (hot sheds that mimicked the climate of the ships) to produce these distinctive wines. Madeira wine has changed little to this day.

Our Malmsey is made similarly, aging for 2 years in neutral barrels in our winery’s own estufa.

Complex aromas of lychee, apricot, and cashew brittle complement the silky texture and caramel flavors on the pallet. With age, expect more notes of dried fruits and toasted nuts. Pair with a glass and a wedge of Rouge River Blue cheese.