The island of Madeira, located off the coast of Portugal, is renowned for its world-famous wines. One of the most popular styles of Madeira wine is Sercial, which is known for its crisp acidity and nutty, citrusy flavors. Sercial is a dry style of wine that is made using the Sercial grape variety, which is grown in the cooler areas of the island.
Sercial wines have a long and fascinating history. The wine has been produced on the island of Madeira since the 15th century, and it was a favorite of European aristocrats and explorers, who appreciated its ability to withstand long sea voyages without spoiling. Today, Sercial is still highly prized by wine lovers around the world for its unique flavor profile and versatility.
Sercial grapes are typically harvested in late August or early September, when they have reached their peak ripeness. The grapes are then crushed and fermented in stainless steel tanks, where a neutral grape spirit is added to stop the fermentation process and preserve the natural sweetness of the grapes. The wine is then aged in oak barrels for a minimum of 3 years, during which time it develops its distinctive character.
On the nose, Sercial wines have aromas of lemon, grapefruit, and green apple, with subtle hints of toasted nuts and sea salt. The wine is crisp and refreshing, with zesty citrus flavors and a long, clean finish. Sercial wines are typically served chilled and are a perfect match for seafood, shellfish, or light appetizers.
One of the things that sets Sercial apart from other styles of Madeira wine is its high acidity. This acidity is what gives the wine its crisp and refreshing character, as well as its ability to age gracefully over many years. Sercial wines can be aged for decades or even centuries, developing complex flavors and aromas over time.
In addition to its nutty, citrusy flavors, Sercial can also exhibit notes of orange peel, honey, and white flowers. The wine is often described as having a saline character, which comes from the oceanic climate and volcanic soil of the island. Sercial wines are typically lighter in color than other styles of Madeira wine, ranging from a pale gold to a light amber.
Sercial is a versatile wine that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a wide range of foods. It is a popular choice with oysters, clams, and other seafood, as well as with light salads and appetizers. Sercial can also be paired with spicy dishes, as its high acidity helps to cut through the heat of the spices.
In recent years, Sercial has been gaining popularity among wine enthusiasts around the world. The wine has won numerous awards and accolades for its unique flavor profile and ability to age gracefully. Sercial from the island of Madeira has been awarded with DOC status, which guarantees its quality and origin, and ensures that the wine is made according to strict guidelines.
If you have never tried Sercial from the island of Madeira, now is the perfect time to discover this unique and delicious wine. With its crisp acidity, nutty flavors, and refreshing character, Sercial is sure to become one of your new favorite wines.
