Verdelho is the grape that sits between bone-dry Sercial and richer Bual, and this bottling shows why it’s often the most versatile of the four. After at least a decade ageing in old casks in Henriques & Henriques’ lodges, it has turned a deep amber with a faint olive-green rim, a classic sign of real age in Madeira.
The nose is lifted and complex: toasted hazelnut and walnut, Seville orange marmalade, dried apricot and a hint of warm spice. On the palate it’s medium-dry, with honeyed dried fruit, caramel and a touch of Earl Grey, all held together by Madeira’s trademark seam of fresh acidity. The finish is long, nutty and gently saline, so it never feels heavy.
Serve lightly chilled as an aperitif, or with a clear consommé, aged Comté, salted almonds or a slice of Dundee cake. Like all Madeira it’s practically indestructible once opened, so it’ll keep happily for months in the cupboard.
