Verdelho

Grape Varieties: Verdelho

Vineyards: Various quality vineyards in Ponta Delgada and São Vicente at altitudes of up to 400m.

Vinification: Cossart Gordon 5 year old Verdelho underwent fermentation off the skins with natural yeast at temperatures between 18°C - 21°C in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks. After approximately 4-5 days, fortification with grape brandy takes place, arresting fermentation at the desired degree of sweetness.

Maturation: Cossart Gordon 5 year old Verdelho was aged in American oak casks in the traditional 'Canteiro' system. This comprises of the gentle heating of the wine in the lofts of the lodges in Funchal. Over the years the wine is transferred from the top floors to the middle floors and eventually to the ground floor where it is cooler. After this gradual 'estufagem' the wine underwent racking and fining before the blend was assembled and bottled.

Specification: Alcohol: 19% ABV pH: 3.4 Residual Sugar: 70.0 g/l Total Acidity: 6.00 g/l tartaric acid

Serving & Cellarage: Cossart Gordon 5 year old Verdelho is fined and does not require decanting. It is excellent as an aperitif but is also exceedingly good with soups, feathered game and patês. It has been bottled when ready for drinking and will keep for several months after opening.

Tasting Notes: Colour and appearance: clear, topaz colour, with golden tones. Nose: a characteristic Madeira aroma, complex and intense, revealing a fresh bouquet of dried fruits, wood and spices. Palate: medium dry with a fresh assertive palate of orange peel, balanced by complex raisiny fruit.