Most people have heard stories of others drinking and wallowing in Madeiras of incredible age. Those I have tasted have left an indelible impression of character and complexity. One of the greatest existing collections of truly mature Madeira is that of the comparatively young house of Barbeito, which acquired a large and diverse collection of old wines in cask in the 1940s and 1950s, some of which date back two centuries. While five year-old Barbeito wines of the basic styles of Sercial, Verdelho, Boal and Malmsey are presently being sold in Australia for around $34 per bottle, it is possible to arrange prompt air-freighted delivery of freshly-drawn bottles of all Barbeito’s classics, which culminate in the Terrantez 1795 ($1725 per bottle), of which twelve whole bottles are made available for worldwide sale each year! More affordable classics which date from1834 to 1960 cost between $175 and $415. Call Westwood Wine Agencies on (03) 9836 7341 with your enquiry.
