Madeira and Port are both fortified Portuguese wines, but Madeira comes from an island in the open ocean closer to Marrakech than Porto. Modern Madeira is derived from the 18th-century wine that sailed around the globe in sweltering rocking ships where barrels gained signature flavors and heartiness. There are now many styles of Madeira from various grapes; Belem is made with red Tinta Negra and classified as Doce (sweet), so it's caramel-tawny in the glass with notes of nougat, praline, spice cake, and nervy acidity. And unlike Port, Madeira stays fresh for months once opened, so there's plenty of time to enjoy it with cheese, flan, pies, biscuits, and savory foods.
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