The vineyards are grown in rows on small terraces that are raised in a region with steep slopes and deep valleys, which is extremely mountainous. Madeira is located in the North Atlantic and shares the same latitude as Casablanca. It enjoys a temperate climate, which is distinctly Atlantic, and experiences mild temperatures throughout the year.

The soils in the region are volcanic and fertile, rich in organic matter, and have a high acidity level. When combined with the humid climate and traditional method of training vines in pergolas, it creates difficulties in the physiological maturation of grapes, resulting in very high yields. As a result, the grapes' maturation is compromised, which is a distinct characteristic of all Madeira wines, featuring very high levels of acidity.

Sercial, Verdelho, Boal, and Malvasia are the four noble grape varieties, which are all white grapes, and are used for making Madeira wine. These grapes are processed to produce varying degrees of sweetness, resulting in four different styles of the wine, namely dry, medium-dry, semi-sweet, and sweet.

Despite this, Tinta Negra is the most commonly planted grape variety on the island, making up more than 80% of the total harvest. This versatile red grape is easily adaptable to all four styles of sweetness. Madeira also produces other types of wine.

Images and descriptions courtesy of Wines of Portugal

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