Terrantez

Terrantez is a white grape variety that is used in the production of Madeira wine. It is one of the traditional noble grape varieties of Madeira, but it is now very rare, and few vineyards have any significant plantings of it.

History

Terrantez is believed to have been brought to Madeira by the early settlers, possibly from Crete. It was highly prized in the 18th and 19th centuries for its ability to produce high-quality wines with a distinctive character. However, it is a difficult grape to grow, being susceptible to disease and producing low yields. As a result, it fell out of favor in the 20th century and was largely replaced by more productive and disease-resistant varieties.

Characteristics

Terrantez grapes are small and tightly packed, which makes them vulnerable to diseases such as botrytis. They ripen late and yield less juice than other varieties, which makes them less profitable for growers. However, the wines they produce are highly valued for their unique flavor profile, which includes notes of citrus, spice, and nuts, as well as a distinctive mineral character.

In Madeira wine

In Madeira, Terrantez is used to produce both dry and sweet wines. It is often used in blends, but single-varietal Terrantez Madeiras are highly sought after by collectors. These wines are known for their complexity and longevity, with well-aged examples showing a remarkable depth of flavor and a long, lingering finish.

Current status

Today, Terrantez is a rarity in Madeira, with only a few producers still growing it. However, there has been a recent resurgence of interest in the variety, and some producers have started to replant it. Despite its challenges, Terrantez is still considered one of the great grape varieties of Madeira, and wines made from it are highly prized by connoisseurs.

See also

• List of grape varieties
• Madeira wine
• Viticulture in Madeira