Verdelho

A white grape shared by Madeira and the Azores, distinct from Spain’s Verdejo and mainland Gouveio.

Aromatic palette

fruit in young wines · developed savoury and nut notes in aged Madeira

acidityStyle-dependent; often fresh

tanninLow to textural

bodyUsually medium; fortified styles vary

alcoholHigher in fortified styles; read the bottle

Do not merge Verdelho with Verdejo or Godello/Gouveio.

Madeira and the Azores, with a further tradition in Australia. It is distinct from Spain’s Verdejo.

A traditional island variety whose site and elevation affect ripening.

Portugal

Traditionally associated with medium-dry fortified Madeira.

Structure

Use the individual wine’s acidity, body and sweetness to refine the grape reference.

At the table

Confirm sweetness and age; serve a modest pour slightly chilled.

Portugal

An important white grape in the island wine repertoire.

Structure

Use the individual wine’s acidity, body and sweetness to refine the grape reference.

At the table

Choose the actual still wine’s weight, sweetness and maturity; do not import Madeira service.

Can make still white wine or fortified Madeira; the grape name does not establish method.

First separate still wine from fortified Madeira; adjust temperature and pour size to the actual category.

Match dry still wines to food by weight and acidity; match sweet Madeira to cheese or desserts of compatible richness.