The Henriques & Henriques Bual 10Yo NV (500ml) is a beautifully rich yet perfectly balanced Madeira from one of the island’s benchmark historic producers. Crafted from predominantly Bual (Boal) grapes grown on the warmer southern slopes of Madeira, the wine is aged for an average of ten years in seasoned oak casks using the traditional Canteiro method, allowing slow oxidative ageing to build remarkable complexity and concentration. The nose reveals dried fig, orange peel and raisin layered alongside walnut, caramel, honey and baking spice, giving the wine extraordinary aromatic depth and warmth.
On the palate, it is medium-full bodied with luscious texture balanced by Madeira’s hallmark vibrant acidity. Layers of molasses, roasted nuts, barley sugar and dried citrus unfold with saline freshness and subtle smoky oxidative complexity, finishing long, powerful and beautifully persistent with exceptional balance between sweetness and freshness. Wine Spectator described it as “powerful and complex,” highlighting its caramel, walnut and orange flavours together with its tangy acidity and lingering maritime finish. The extended ageing gives the wine remarkable harmony and depth while preserving the freshness that makes Madeira uniquely food-friendly and extraordinarily long-lived after opening.
Ben’s Recommendation:
The Henriques & Henriques Bual 10Yo NV is a superb classic medium-rich Madeira — complex, nutty and beautifully balanced with outstanding depth and freshness. Perfect with blue cheese, crème brûlée, roasted nuts, sticky desserts, foie gras or slow-cooked rich dishes. Also exceptional simply sipped after dinner. Enjoy now and over many months after opening.
