Madeira Flashcards
What are the ‘recommended’ varieties of Madeira?
Sercial
Verdelho
Boal
Malvasia
Terrantez
Tinta Negra
Climate of Madeira
Subtropical Mediterranean. Warm summers, mild winters (although lack of winter dormancy is a challenge.
A range of microclimates due to mountainous terrain. Higher altitude, cooler temps.
High humidity, more rain in the north of the island where humid winds coming from the north cool and condense when they reach the mountains, rain shadow means less rain on the south side.
Majority of rain falls in autumn and winter.
What are irrigation channels in Madeira?
Levadas.
Small channels that carry rainwater from the centre of the island to vineyard areas closer to the coast, often towards the south which receives less rainfall.
Training and trellising of Madeira
Pergola system called Latadas. Allows air circulation above and beneath the vines (fungal diseases/humid climate).
Other crops grown on land - effective use of small landholdings.
Cordon trained, VSP trellised
Describe harvest in Madeira
IVDP decides official harvest date in consultation with growers and producers. Usually end of August or beginning of September.
Min potential alcohol 9%abv and no more than 11%abv.
Max permitted yield varies according to vintage condition but high yields of 150hl/ha are common. Due to fertile soils, plentiful rainfall and irrigation, suitable varieties capable of high yields.
By hand (steep terrain)
