Again the note below reflects our own experiences of the wine. This could go with the dishes outlined in the Bual note above but could also take on richer desserts like plum pudding. Or it is great simply on its own at the end of a meal to lift the spirits and refresh the palate

Historically considered to be the great grape of Madeira, Terrantez, was introduced in the late 1600's. By the 18th and 19th centuries Terrantez was producing what many experts considered to be the greatest wines of the island. However, the 1852 oidium outbreak destroyed most of the Terrantez vines, followed by phylloxera which put paid to the rest. Nowadays the variety is practically extinct and efforts to revive the plantings have been hampered by the grape's low yielding nature and susceptibility to rot and to mildew in Madeira's humid climate. Henriques farm several tiny parcels of rare Terrantez, and are recognised as one of the leading producers of wines made with this variety.

A prestigious 1er Cru Classé estate, Château Coutet is the oldest and largest property in Barsac. The name Coutet is derived from the Gascons word for knife and the estates wines are renowned for their fresh cutting acidity and crisp lively palate. A blend of Sémillon (75 5%), Sauvignon Blanc (23%) and Muscadelle (2%), the wines show beguiling aromas of citrus, tropical fruits, white flowers, honey and ginger, revealing more candied fruit, gingerbread notes with age. The wine is matured in oak barriques for 18 months.

The oldest British-owned Port house, Warre's was founded by two young entrepreneurs Clarke and Thornton in 1670 and is considered one of the pioneering houses of the Port trade. Today Warre's is owned by the famous Symington family. Warre's Port is the first and oldest Port brand in the world, having been shipped continuously since 1750. Very dark inky and concentrated colour. Lovely fresh aromas of violets. Layer and layer of ripe blackberry fruit, intensely rich and full bodied. Sweetness and tannins bind this wine together to form a perfect harmonious structure.

After a minimum of 25 years in barrel, vintages are selected for release only when they have attained classic hallmarks of aged Pedro Ximenez: a black mahogany colour and a sweetly radiant nose. Saturated with all kinds of evocative smoke, raisin, and savoury aromas. The palate is full of dark chocolate, roasted coffee beans, rum, fruitcake and Turkish coffee thats fresh acidity that hems in the wines shape and freshness.

Arguably one of the greatest Australian Tawny Ports, Penfolds Great Grandfather is a refinement of the reserve material used for the Grandfather Tawny. With an average age of 15 years, fruit is picked from vines that are 166 years old. For serious port-lovers this is heaven.

After Yquem, Château Climens is regarded as the region's second best wine. Where Chateau d'Yquem is known for concentration and lusciousness, Climens strive for elegance, purity and freshness. For those looking to discover the best of Sauternes, this wine is a must.