The Henriques & Henriques Verdelho 15Yo NV (500ml) is a beautifully poised and complex Madeira from one of the island’s benchmark historic producers. Crafted entirely from Verdelho and aged for an average of fifteen years in seasoned oak casks using the traditional Canteiro method, the wine occupies the classic medium-dry spectrum of Madeira — balancing richness, oxidative complexity and vibrant acidity with remarkable precision. The nose reveals dried citrus peel, roasted nuts and baked apricot layered alongside caramel, sea spray and warming spice, giving the wine exceptional aromatic depth and savoury complexity.
On the palate, it is medium-bodied with lively acidity and a beautifully balanced off-dry finish. Layers of walnut, orange rind, honeyed dried fruit and subtle smoky oxidative notes unfold with saline freshness and remarkable tension, finishing long, savoury and beautifully persistent. The extended ageing in cask builds concentration and textural depth while preserving the hallmark freshness that makes great Madeira so compelling and versatile at the table. Critics have praised the wine’s “deep yet rich” palate and “complex, long and tense” finish, highlighting its exceptional balance between richness and energy.
Ben’s Recommendation:
The Henriques & Henriques Verdelho 15Yo NV is a world-class medium-dry Madeira — layered, saline and beautifully refined with outstanding complexity and freshness. Perfect lightly chilled with consommé, smoked seafood, mushroom dishes, hard cheeses or roasted nuts. Also exceptional simply sipped slowly after dinner. Enjoy now and over many months after opening.
