GRAPE VARIETIES

Malmsey

VINEYARDS

Various quality vineyards including São Jorge at altitudes between 150 - 200m.

VINIFICATION

Blandy's 5 year old Malmsey underwent fermentation off the skins with natural yeast at temperatures between 18°C - 21°C in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks.
After approximately 48 hours, fortification with grape brandy takes place, arresting fermentation at the desired degree of sweetness.

MATURATION

Blandy's 5 year old Malmsey was aged in American oak casks in the traditional 'Canteiro' system.
This comprises of the gentle heating of the wine in the lofts of the lodges in Funchal.
Over the years the wine is transferred from the top floors to the middle floors and eventually to the ground floor where it is cooler.
After this gradual 'estufagem' the wine underwent racking and fining before the blend was assembled and bottled.

SPECIFICATION

Alcohol : 19%
ABV pH : 3.42
Residual Sugar : 123 g/l
Total Acidity: 6.23 g/l tartaric acid

SERVING & CELLARAGE

Blandy's 5 year old Malmsey is fined and does not require decanting.
It is a superb accompaniment to dessert dishes, especially fruit, cakes, rich chocolate puddings and cheeses.
It has been bottled when ready for drinking and will keep for several months after opening.

PRESS COMMENTS

"The nose is redolent of freshly baked, warm, spicy fruit dripping in golden syrup.
The palate is lush, with a rich, fragrant, soft texture - impeccably balanced."

International Wine Challenge.

October 1999.

AWARDS

Gold Medal, IWC 1999

Tasting Notes

Dark, golden brown with characteristic Madeira bouquet of raisins, toffee and nuts.
Sweet with a rich, full bodied, honeyed and complex finish and beautifully balanced acidity.