1996 Barbeito Ribeiro Real Tinta Negra Colheita Medium Sweet

Just 900 bottles were made of this awesome Madeira.  It reveals characteristics which I readily associate with the variety – orange peel, creamily soft caramel and a slightly malty edge.  But what sets it apart from most is its uncommon levity and freshness ( a trademark Barbeito quality executed par excellence here).  It has lovely length with whiffs of lifted tobacco and struck match, which add both to its complexity and its sense of energy.  Very good