2000 Barbeito Signature '44a' Single Cask Malvasia - Madeira

Vinhos Barbeito was founded in 1946 by Mario Barbeito de Vasconcelos who, in the early days, went around the island buying up large quantities of privately owned wine, some of it dating back to the 18th century. The company earned a reputation as the source of mature, aged Madeira as well as younger wines bought from small local wine makers.Today Ricardo Freitas, grandson of the founder, carries on the family tradition while simultaneously marketing a new line of single harvest and single cask Madeiras that are distinctly different in style. These new wines are not blends of many different wines over numerous vintages as has been the tradition in Madeira. They are instead an expression of unique characteristics of the climate, geography and geology of Madeira. This unique "terroir" driven style is new to the island and the resulting wines are prized for their balance and precision.

The 2000 Malvasia is a rare single cask Madeira. Just 1026 bottles were produced from this exemplary batch of mature Malvasia that was selected by Ricardo Freitas fot its concentrated and aromatic qualities. Light amber in color the wine possesses aromas of brandied raisin and toffee. Flavors of walnuts and dried fruits precede a rich,warm finish laced with dusty minerality. Drier than a typical Malvasia, this wine exhibits a complex elegance that reflects the care with which it was created.