Madeira, here I come! But first a 10 years old Sercial…

It’s been eighteen months now. 18 months! That’s simply too long. I’m going back. Now. Well ok, in two weeks time….

Madeira’s my vinous Xanadu. An island I keep returning to. Great wines, great people and awesome sceneries. The question is if the next trip though, ever will find its counterpart? I’m invited to take part in the bicentennial tasting at Blandy’s on the 23rd of September. To celebrate 200 years of greatness. I kind of have the feeling this will be something extraordinary, a tasting hard to beat. 100 years old wine. 150 years old wine. Heck, even older wines might show up.

”Will you drink it? Or spit?”

Do one legged ducks swim in circles? Is the Pope Catholic?

But the experiences doesn’t stop there. Luís d’Oliveira will also pour me some great stuff. Barbeito as well. And Henriques times two. And…

While the expectations are escalating in my mind, I’m reminding myself what I just as much cherish – a really fine, reliable and character filled 10 years old Sercial. It doesn’t have to be freaking old to charm. My Madeira passion is more related to the character of the wines than age (although age doesn’t hurt, not at all). Besides, last time I checked my account it didn’t indicate I could drink century old vintage wines on an everyday basis.

Summertime calls for a Sercial. Or Verdelho. Slightly chilled they make a great sip whith some salty starters – or when the cheese plate enters, they’re a perfect match to several kinds of fromage. One of my favorite Sercial wines for occasional drinking, is the 10 YO version from Henriques and Henriques. Lots of energy in this wine. Something happening all the time while smelling and tasting. Pickled almonds, a sea breeze touch, green apples, vanilla, lime peel and herbal honey. Finely put together on the nose. No liquor nose at all which I sometimes find in younger Sercial. Hardly a bone dry taste, rather a quite powerful style with some evident sweetness. Thanks to the acidity the sugar is kept in fine balance though. Almonds, some vanilla fudge, citrus fruits and a long intense herbal finish. At the price this is a great drink and an excellent representative for the style of the house.

10 Years Old Sercial, Henriques and Henriques, 89-90 p