In this episode of The Vint Podcast, hosts Brady Weller and Billy Galanko welcome Humberto Jardim, Managing Director and Head Winemaker of Henriques & Henriques, one of the oldest and most respected Madeira wine producers. Humberto shares his in-depth knowledge of Madeira wine production, sales, its history, and the unique challenges of growing grapes on the steep terrain of the island. He explains how Madeira’s sub-tropical climate, combined with traditional winemaking techniques, creates some of the most complex and long-lived wines in the world.

Throughout the conversation, Humberto provides a detailed look into the intricate aging process that defines Madeira wines. Unlike most wines, Madeira undergoes a unique aging journey that includes exposure to heat and oxygen, which helps develop the rich flavors and remarkable resilience that Madeira is known for. Humberto also discusses the different styles of Madeira—from the bright Sercial to the rich Malmsey—explaining how each grape variety contributes to the wine's diverse flavor profiles.

The episode also explores Henriques & Henriques’ leadership in reviving the rare Terrantez grape on Madeira, which has gained renewed attention due to its complex and nuanced wines. Humberto sheds light on why this particular grape is challenging for growers but holds immense potential for those willing to take the risk.

Chapters:
01:13 Weekly News Highlights
04:21 Understanding Madeira Wine Production
06:05 Diving into Madeira Wine Varieties
12:53 Interview with Humberto Jardim
26:07 Madeira's Global Reach and Historical Significance
27:01 Challenges and Characteristics of the Terrantez grape
28:07 Understanding Madeira's Unique Wine Profiles
31:37 The Complexity of Fortified Wine Production
33:17 The Art of Blending Madeira Wines
47:08 Market Strategies and Consumer Education
52:04 Future Prospects and Historical Value of Madeira
57:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email [email protected].

Cheers!