Broadbent Colheita Madeira 1999
(Portugal) - [WS 92] [WA 91]

About Broadbent Madeira: 
Begun in 1996, Broadbent Madeira was inspired by Bartholomew Broadbent’s father, Michael Broadbent, who called Madeira his “desert island wine,” and who played a crucial role in sourcing the wines and establishing the blends. Bartholomew Broadbent, who spent more than a decade reintroducing Madeira to the U.S. market, was determined to create a line of Madeiras to compete with the best in the world.

Vinification:

Several mixtures of soils derived mainly of basalt, trachytes and trachydolerites, tufa, scoria and conglomerates. With its mild humidity, the island is classified as subtropical with variations in temperature, humidity, and rainfall according to altitude. Tinta Negra grapes are grown in Estreito de Câmara de Lobos, Câmara de Lobos and São Vicente. Harvest manually in several weekly selections starting at 1st week of August through 1st week of October. Grapes are completely destemmed and crushed. Fermentation is carried out with maceration skins at controlled temperature in stainless steel containers. Juice is frequently pumped over the cap for about 2 to 3 days, in order to extract color and aroma compounds. During fermentation, there is an addition of neutral grape spirit (96°) in order to maintain the desired sweetness degree. Wine is aged in American and French oak cask in the traditional “Canteiro” since harvest. After matured, the wine underwent racking, fining and filtering before the blend was assembled and bottle.

Tasting Notes:

Brilliant medium deep amber color with elegant aromas with hints of raisins, walnut cake and sugar syrup. Sweetness balanced by a vibrant acidity. Long, complex finish with notes of toasted walnut.

91 Points - Wine Advocate:
"The 1999 Colheita offers up a rich bouquet of dates, figs, brown sugar, walnuts and honey. On the palate, it's medium to full-bodied, fleshy and supple, with an open-knit, layered and nicely concentrated core, lively acids and a pure, expansive finish. This is a touch less deep and racy than the 1996 rendition tasted alongside, but it is a charming and accessible Madeira and a fine example of its medium-rich style." - William Kelley (Nov 2019)