Madeira launches grape harvest with focus on premium wine aging

The Madeira Regional Government has launched its official grape harvest, which began earlier than scheduled due to weather conditions accelerating grape maturation. Regional Secretary of Agriculture and Fisheries, Nuno Maciel, stated that the strategy for the region focuses on increasing the value of production by investing in the aging of Madeira wines to target premium market segments.

To support local viticulturists, the government is providing financial aid for the Tinta Negra and Boal grape varieties through POSEI, with support increasing to 255 euros per ton for both. Production is forecasted to exceed 3,000 tons, approximately 10% higher than the 2025 figures.