What is the geographical location of Madeira?
Portuguese island in the Atlantic Ocean, around 805 km southwest of mainland Portugal, 600 km west of Morocco, and 400 km north of the Canary Islands.
Madeira is known for its variety of wine styles and sweetness levels.
In what year was Madeira colonized by Portuguese explorers?
Shortly after 1420
Wealthy settlers used enslaved workers to clear land for agriculture.
What were the original main crops and exports of Madeira?
- Sugar
- Wheat
- Vines
The sugar industry declined in the 1500s due to competition.
When did wine exports from Madeira begin to grow significantly?
During the 1600s and 1700s
British merchants played a crucial role in this growth.
What effect did long periods in variable temperatures have on Madeira wines?
Improved quality
Wines were used as hold ballast on ships to enhance quality.
What five challenges did the Madeira wine trade face in the 1800s and 1900s?
- Powdery mildew
- Phylloxera
- Russian Revolution
- Prohibition in the USA
- Two world wars
These events negatively impacted trade in major markets.
What institution was founded in 1979 to regulate Madeira production?
Instituto do Vinho da Madeira
It was superseded by IVBAM in 2006.
What climate type does Madeira have?
Warm, Mediterranean
Summer temperatures average around 20–22°C (68–72°F).
What is the average rainfall in the central part of Madeira?
Exceeds 3,000 mm per year
This area is forested and largely uninhabited.
What is the average vineyard size on Madeira?
About 0.3 ha
Many vineyards are terraced due to steep slopes.
What are the 4 common diseases affecting vineyards in Madeira?
- Downy mildew
- Powdery mildew
- Grey rot
- Phomopsis
Disease pressure is high due to the warm, humid climate.
What is the official harvest date for Madeira grapes?
End of August or start of September
Harvesting is usually done by hand.
What grape variety was the most planted on Madeira before the late 1800s?
Verdelho
It was highly esteemed before the devastation caused by powdery mildew and phylloxera.
What are the 6 recommended grape varieties for Madeira production?
- Sercial
- Verdelho
- Boal
- Malvasia
- Terrantez
Tinta Negra is also included as a recommended variety.
What is the most planted grape variety on Madeira?
Tinta Negra
It is high yielding and easy to grow.
What is the fermentation process for Madeira wines typically conducted in?
Stainless steel vessels using ambient yeasts
The length of fermentation varies by wine style.
What is the estufagem maturation process used for?
Less premium wine styles
Wine is heated in temperature-controlled tanks.
What is the canteiro maturation process associated with?
Higher quality wines
Wines are matured in old oak casks in a warm environment.
When can wines made from the estufagem process be sold?
Wines may not be sold until the 31st of October of the second year following harvest
For example, grapes vinified from the 2023 vintage may only be sold from 31 October 2025.
What is the minimum potential alcohol at harvest for Madeira grapes?
9% abv
Grapes are typically picked with average potential alcohols of no more than 11% abv.
What is the maximum permitted yield for Madeira grapes?
150 hL/ha
High yields are common due to fertile soils and irrigation.
What is the minimum maturation period for Madeira wines to qualify for EU subsidies?
Five years
Subsidies are available when wines are aged for five years beyond the minimum maturation period.
Who is responsible for sealing and unsealing the vessels during the additional maturation period of Madeira wines?
IVBAM personnel
They supervise the maturation process and allow producers to check the wine under supervision.
What is the standard practice for most Madeira wines regarding vintage?
Non-vintage blending
Blending wines from different vintages and vineyards is common to achieve consistency.
