Verdelho is one of the emblematic grape varieties of the island of Madeira, responsible for the success of the fortified wines that bear its name, although it only acquired noble grape status at the beginning of the 20th century. Before the phylloxera crisis, it covered more than two-thirds of the island’s vineyards. Today, it thrives mainly on the northern coast of Madeira at high altitudes, as well as in the Azores and, to a lesser extent, in Australia, where it has built a strong international reputation.

Verdelho is characterized by small, compact clusters composed of green-yellow berries, rich in acidity and sugars, making it an ideal variety for Madeira’s medium-dry and dry wines. Verdelho wines display a straw-gold color with greenish reflections, lively acidity, velvety sweetness, and excellent harmony. They offer aromas of citrus, hazelnut, spices, and sometimes tobacco, finishing dry and full-bodied.

Verdelho is also grown on the Portuguese mainland (notably in Alentejo, Dão, and Tejo), but it plays a central role in Madeira’s fortified wine production, classified as medium-dry. Since 1993, Madeira wines labeled Verdelho must contain at least 85% of this grape. In the Azores, it is the main variety for several IGPs, including Biscoitos, Graciosa, and Pico.

Internationally, Verdelho has seen a resurgence in Australia, particularly in the Hunter Valley, where it produces dry, intense white wines with notes of lime and honeysuckle.

In summary, Verdelho is both a historic and modern variety, prized for its freshness, aging potential, and aromatic complexity in both fortified and dry wines. It pairs perfectly with seafood, aperitifs, cheeses, and some exotic dishes, remaining one of the pillars of Madeira and Azores’ viticultural identity.

Associated aromas

Lemon

Papaya

Mango