Madeira wine is a fortified wine that comes from the island of Madeira off the coast of Portugal. It is known for its unique ageing process and distinctive flavour profile. Madeira wine has a long history dating back to the Age of Discovery, when it was popular with sailors and traders as a durable and flavourful wine that could withstand long journeys. The wine is made from different grape varieties, including Sercial, Verdelho, Bual and Malmsey, and the ageing process is called "estufagem", which gives the wine its characteristic notes of nuts, caramel and dried fruit. The wine is also fortified with brandy to increase its alcohol content. It comes in different varieties, dry, semi-dry and sweet, and can be enjoyed as an aperitif or as a dessert wine. Well-known and respected Madeira wine brands include Blandy's, Barbeito, Henriques & Henriques and Justino's.