Master Sommelier John Szabo was the first Canadian to add the “MS” after his name in 2004. Read more
Barbeito runs on the drier and sharper end of the spectrum for all of the various sweetness categories of Madeira, and this malvasia, the sweetest of Madeiras, is rendered here in its leanest and freshest form, still sweet, but anchored on a seam of electric acidity, and with some firm tannins to further tighten the ensemble. Complexity and depth are exceptional, and complexity is world class. Candied orange, lime and lemon, kumquat, barley, honey, mint and more linger. Serve this chilled with hard or blue cheeses, or game (venison, hung game birds) for a real treat. Tasted January 2019.
May 15, 2019
Michael Godel is a Principal Critic at WineAlign.com Read more
A wow nose if ever a Madeira wanted your attention with an orange burst that could only come from heritage varieties grown on what handful of trees are left in this world. The nuttiness is so subtle and so purposefully powerful without trying. Yes this is dessert wine but it can and should be so versatile so do not be afraid to taste this alongside some aged meat, beef, game or dried as ham, also winter sausage. Sip it late night, sip it anytime. The wine no longer needs to be in the glass to smell it halfway across the room. Drink 2019-2026. Tasted January 2019.
May 15, 2019
