The Henriques & Henriques Monte Seco Extra Dry 3Yo NV (500ml) is a beautifully vibrant and refreshing Madeira that showcases a lighter, aperitif-style interpretation of the island’s historic fortified wines. Produced by one of Madeira’s benchmark houses, Henriques & Henriques, the wine is crafted primarily from Tinta Negra with a small proportion of Sercial, then aged for an average of three years in oak casks. Designed as an extra-dry style, Monte Seco balances subtle oxidative complexity with remarkable freshness and saline tension. The nose reveals citrus peel, green almond and apple skin layered alongside delicate nuttiness and sea-spray minerality, giving the wine impressive lift and Madeira character.
On the palate, it is light to medium-bodied with lively natural acidity, subtle oxidative complexity and a crisp, dry finish carried by saline freshness and citrus tension. Layers of preserved lemon, toasted nuts and light caramel notes unfold with excellent energy and balance, finishing clean, savoury and beautifully refreshing. Unlike richer styles of Madeira, Monte Seco is intentionally leaner and brighter, making it especially versatile as an aperitif or cocktail ingredient while still delivering the complexity and longevity for which Madeira is famous.
Ben’s Recommendation:
The Henriques & Henriques Monte Seco Extra Dry 3Yo NV is a superb introduction to dry Madeira — crisp, saline and effortlessly drinkable with outstanding versatility. Perfect served chilled as an aperitif, with smoked almonds, oysters, charcuterie or salty tapas. Also excellent in cocktails or with tonic and citrus. Enjoy now and over many months after opening.
