Madeira wine, semi-sweet / Vinho da Madeira, meio doce, 750ml

Madeira wine is primarily made from five white grape varieties: Sercial, Verdelho, Bual, Terrantez, and Malvasia. The red grape varieties Tinta Negra Mole are also used.
Similar to port wine, Madeira wine's fermentation is interrupted by the addition of high-proof brandy. This prevents all of the sugar from fermenting, and the wine retains a corresponding sweetness. The alcohol content is between 17 and 22 percent.
What makes Madeira wine special is its five- to eight-month aging at elevated temperatures of up to 75 degrees Celsius. This was formerly done in wooden barrels in the heat under a tin roof, but today it's usually done artificially in a heated tank. This gives Madeira wine an extremely long shelf life, and even an opened bottle can be stored for months without spoiling.
The ideal drinking temperature for Madeira wine is 14 to 18°C. So, it's best enjoyed slightly chilled, like port wine. As a dessert wine, it pairs wonderfully with chocolate or fruity desserts.