1976 Terrantez Madeira, Blandy's

The 1976 Terrantez, a special release to celebrate the 250th anniversary of US independence, was aged in the "canteiro" system in oak casks at room temperature for almost 50 years. It's clear and bright, with a coppery brown color and golden nuances showing greenish reflections. It comes in at 20% alcohol, with a pH of 3.25 and 91 grams of sugar. It was very shy and closed when poured, and I had to wait a couple of hours for it to open up in the glass. It's subtle and elegant rather than super aromatic, and it has terrific balance and nuance; it is detailed, precise and clean, with a long finish. This is stunning. Only 192 bottles produced. It was bottled in 2025. ~ (96) Luis Gutiérrez, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate 12-18-2025