D'Oliveiras, Tinta Negra Medium Dry, Madeira, Portugal, 1995

Overview of the Wine
D’Oliveira is one of the greatest of the classic Madeira shippers, and one of the few to survive from the pre-phylloxera era. With origins as far back as 1820, and today housed in cellars that date from 1619, this highly important company is still owned by the same family, who were once highly important growers in the parish of São Martinho.

Its stocks of old wines have grown over time, either through marriage with other wine-producing families, or by the purchase of other old firms. But the foundation for its unparalleled library of ancient vintages was laid more than 150 years ago in the legendary São Martinho vineyards of João Pereira D'Oliveira, the great grandfather of the current managing director, Luis D’Oliveira.

João Pereira was particularly well known for his Verdelhos, building on São Martinho’s reputation for this noble grape. The village’s Verdelhos have long enjoyed a high reputation; in 1896, the New York Madeira merchant Charles Bellows singled out São Martinho Verdelhos from the others on the island for their “wonderful perfume.”

Winemaker
Aníbal and Luis D’Oliveira

Grape / Blend
Tinta Negra 

Origin
Madeira, Portugal

Winemaker's Tasting Notes
Produced from a remarkable year’s harvest, from the Tinta Negra variety, this grape is recognized as being one of the recommended varieties. It comprises over 60% of the total amount of Madeira wine produced annually. This wine variety is known to adapt easily to the island’s different wine-growing areas and the most significant quantities are grown in Câmara de Lobos and São Vicente.

This medium dry Madeira wine is ideal as an aperitif, or you may choose it to accompany your consommé. Equally as good enjoyed on it’s own.

It is important to let the wine breathe for a while after it has been opened, in order to develop the fullness of its aromas. If only part of the wine is consumed, the remainder can be kept in the bottle for many years. It is possible that this wine will develop through this prior airing. Please remember to use the supplementary cork so that it is completely sealed. D'Oliveira recommends that the bottle be kept upright, away from extreme temperatures and served at a temperature of around 18º C or room temperature. If the wine is kept for many years in the bottle, some natural, deposit may accumulate. This is a sign of life and is part of the inherent natural qualities of this genuine Madeira. D'Oliveira advises great care in serving it to prevent clouding. If preferred, it may be decanted.

96 Points -  Wine Spectator
A rich, robust style, with smoky notes to the flavors of dried tropical fruits and apple, enlivened by accents of citrus zest. Cedar and dried ginger details fill the powerfully structured finish. Still an adolescent, with a long future ahead. Very pure.

Product size: 750ml