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Malmsey
[MAHM-zee]

1. The richest, darkest, and sweetest (though rarely cloying) of the MADEIRA wines. Originally made primarily with the MALVASIA grape (called Malmsey on the island of Madeira), this style of Madeira has recently included more TINTA NEGRA MOLE (which is considered a good, but not classic grape). This use is particularly prominent in the cheaper versions of Madeira. However, in 1986, Portugal entered the Common Market, whose regulations required that by 1993 any Madeira wine naming a grape variety on its label must contain at least 85 percent of that grape. This labeling requirement has caused an upsurge in replanting of the classic vines like Malvasia. Wines labeled “Malmsey-style” can contain less than the required 85 percent of Malvasia grapes and can be counted on to include more Tinta Negra Mole. 2. On the island of Madeira, Malmsey is another name for the MALVASIA grape. 3. Extremely sweet, strongly flavored wine popular in ancient Greece.
Related Links: Madeira, Negra Mole, Malvasia
© Copyright Barron's Educational Services, Inc.
1995 based on THE WINE LOVER'S COMPANION,
by Ron Herbst and Sharon Tyler Herbst.

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