In honor of Independence Day we bring you the favorite wine of our Founding Fathers: Madeira, a fortified Portuguese wine. Legend has it that Thomas Jefferson used a glass of Madeira to toast the Declaration of Independence. He wasn’t the only one. Letters between John Adams’ and his wife Abigail document the copious quantities of Madeira consumed by the Continental Congress. George Washington, Alexander Hamilton and Benjamin Franklin were all said to be fans of the fortified wine.

Madeira originates in the small island of Madeira, just West of Morocco, an important port for the long voyages to the New World. Ships would stock up on the fortified wine before a journey around the world because it could survive the harsh conditions of life at sea. The exposure to heat during the voyage was even said to improve the wine, earning Madeira the name “Vinho da roda,” or “Wine of the Round Voyage.” Today Madeiras are intentionally heated to temperatures of 140°F before bottling which builds character and allows them to be consumed long after opening.

Madeiras are made of four main grape varieties: dry yet light Sercial, delicate Verdelho, rich, half-sweet Boal, and the sweet Malvasia. Amongst these, you are certain to find a Madeira to suit your palate for the perfect Fourth of July toast.

Whether sweet or dry, The Daily Sip’s Favorite Madeiras are produced and imported by Wine Enthusiast's 2005 Importer of the Year, Broadbent Selections.

Get your bottle of Madeira at www.broadbent.com