Madeira’s location in the Atlantic made it an important strategic port of call, which led to the rapid expansion of the island’s wine, especially in countries such as the United States of America. It was so popular in the USA that in the 18th century, Madeira wine was reported to have represented over 75% of all wine imported into this market.
The archipelago is situated at 32º 38’ latitude north and 16º 54’ longitude west, about 1100 km off the coast of Portugal, and 590 kms off the coast of Morocco.
The total area of the island is 741kms2, of which the vineyards occupy about 490 hectares.
The island relief is steep and a mountain range that climbs up to 1.862m (6.109 ft) in altitude above sea-level – the highest peak is Pico Ruivo – runs the length of the island, virtually dividing it into two, and causing 7 different microclimates that have a determining effect on where the vineyards are planted.
The overall sub-tropical and temperate climate, together with the fertile volcanic soils, provides perfect conditions for the growth of a wide range of different crops.
Vineyards
Due to the geography of the island of Madeira, the vast majority of the vineyards are relatively small in size. Vineyards can be found from sea level up to an altitude of 800 meters, perched in small terraces known as “poios”. So as to maximize the use of land, it was very common in the past to find grapes planted in pergola – or “latada”, as it is commonly known in Madeira – with vegetables planted at ground level. In the latter years, many vineyards have been reconverted to modern espalier conduction, which improves the maturation of the grapes due to increased sun exposure.
The family has long-standing relationships with the farmers, and over the years, these agreements have been passed down from generation to generation.
The family currently own 2 vineyards: On the north of the island, the 4.2 Ha property Quinta de São Jorge grows Sercial, Verdelho, and Malvasia de São Jorge. On the south of the island, 7th generation member Andrew Blandy owns the Quinta de Santa Luzia property, a small 3.5 Ha experimental vineyard, growing the 4 noble white varietals, Sercial, Verdelho, Terrantez, and Bual.
Latada
Espaldeira
Climate
Madeira has a mild sub-tropical climate, with warm summer months and temperate winters. Nevertheless, higher up the mountains, temperature and humidity vary dramatically and on occasions, the peaks can become white from snow.
The north side of the island is subject to the north Atlantic winds, and therefore cooler and more humid, whilst the south side is warm and sunny. The climate contributes to a rich and diverse flora where flowers, fruit and vegetables grow in abundance.
Terroir(s)
Madeira is rich and diverse in terroirs. As a volcanic island in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the vineyards are exposed to the ocean breeze and the grapes from vineyards planted at lower levels can show saline and iodine notes.
The soils are acidic, rich in minerals, iron and phosphorus, and poor in potassium, which all contribute to the trademark acidity of the wine. In fact, the acidity is one of the most remarkable assets of the wines, allowing this unique wine to keep fresh even after having been bottled for many years.
Irrigation is provided by an ancient system of canals called “levadas” that brings water from the mountains down to the agricultural plots, until the ocean.
