Madeira General Knowledge Flashcards
Where is Madeira?
600 km off the coast of Morocco in the Atlantic Ocean
When was the island of Madeira discovered?
1419
Describe the early colonial history of the island of Madeira.
Portuguese merchants and their “laborers” (slaves) colonized the island shortly after its discovery in 1419. Large swaths of forest were burned to increase soil fertility and make viable agricultural ranges. Terraces and irrigation channels were built to support agriculture.
What were the initial crop plantings on the island of Madeira?
Sugar, wheat, and grape vines
What happened to the economy in Madeira during the 16th century?
The value of sugar dropped as Brazil became a principle sugar source. Production shifted toward winemaking and by the 17h and 18th centuries was consumed around the world
What discovery was made about Madeira wine during its international trade? What was the result?
The conditions on board the ship that included jostling the wine barrels, heat beating on the ship, and humidity from the ocean improved the quality of the wines. The wines were ultimately shipped around the world solely for maturation so as to improve the wine.
How did Madeira wine develop in the 19th and 20th centuries?
It didn’t. Powdery mildew and phylloxera hit the island in the mid to late 19th century. Yields were reduced and vines were destroyed. U.S. Prohibition, two World Wars, and the Russian Revolution crushed the market and interest in Madeira waned.
Does Madeira have a regulating body for its wine?
Yes. In 1979, the Instituto do Vinho da Madeira was founded but was replaced in 2006 by the Instituto do Vinho, do Bordado e do Artesanato da Madeira (IP-RAM / IVBAM)
What occurred during the 20th century to improve wine quality in Madeira?
Portugal’s induction to the EU in 1986, which led to fiscal investment and governmental quality control.
Following phylloxera and mildew infection, how were Madeira vineyards replanted?
With American and hybrid varieties that were more resistant to disease than Vinifera.
How was Madeira able to replant grapes that could be used in Madeira production?
Through EU replanting schemes following Portugal’s induction to the EU
What is an alternate name for Bual?
Malvasia Fina
What grapes are classified as Malvasia in Madeira?
Malvasia Cândida
Malvasia de São Jorge
What is Garrafeira?
An alternate name for Frasquiera, the flagship product of a Madeira producer’s line
