Henriques & Henriques is one of the most respected and historic names in Madeira wine. Established in 1850, this distinguished Madeira wine producer has built an international reputation for quality, authenticity, and dedication to traditional ageing methods. Its wines are celebrated for their balance, longevity, and faithful expression of the island’s unique terroir.

Henriques & Henriques has played a significant role in preserving and promoting the heritage of fortified wines from the region. Known for its meticulous approach to maturation and its commitment to classic grape varieties, the company remains an important reference point for collectors, enthusiasts, and students of Madeira wine alike.

Unlike many historic Madeira wine houses, Henriques & Henriques is notable for owning vineyards on the island, ensuring greater control over grape quality and production. This rare distinction, combined with its extensive ageing stocks, reinforces its reputation as a traditional and authoritative Madeira wine producer.

In a Nutshell

• Founded: 1850
• Founder: João Gonçalves Henriques
• Location: Câmara de Lobos, Madeira, Portugal
• Website: www.henriquesehenriques.pt
• Visiting Information: Tours and tastings available by appointment
• House Style: Elegant, balanced, and long-lived Madeira wines produced using traditional ageing methods
• What the Producer is Best Known For: High-quality aged Madeiras, ownership of vineyards, and exceptional examples of traditional grape varieties

What’s on this page

1. Origin Story of Henriques & Henriques
2. Ownership & Evolution
3. Production & Winemaking
4. Wines to Know
5. Visiting Henriques & Henriques
6. Interesting Facts
7. Related Madeira Wine Producers
8. FAQs About Henriques & Henriques

1. Origin Story of Henriques & Henriques

Henriques & Henriques was founded in 1850 by João Gonçalves Henriques, a Madeiran entrepreneur dedicated to the production and export of Madeira wine. From its inception, the company focused on preserving the traditions and quality standards that had made Madeira one of the world’s most celebrated fortified wines.

During the 19th century, Madeira wine enjoyed widespread international demand, and Henriques & Henriques contributed to the island’s flourishing export trade. The company steadily built a reputation for reliability and excellence, supplying markets in Europe and beyond.

Over time, the house established itself as a guardian of Madeira’s heritage, maintaining historic ageing stocks and adhering to traditional practices that define the character of authentic Madeira wine.

2. Ownership & Evolution

Since its founding, Henriques & Henriques has evolved into one of the most respected Madeira wine houses. Through periods of economic challenge and changing global demand, the company has demonstrated resilience by modernising its facilities while preserving traditional production techniques.

A major milestone in its development was the establishment of a modern winery in Câmara de Lobos during the late 20th century. This investment enabled the producer to refine its winemaking and ageing processes, ensuring consistent quality while maintaining historical authenticity.

The company’s continued focus on quality, innovation, and heritage has secured its standing as a leading Madeira wine producer in both domestic and international markets.

3. Production & Winemaking

Henriques & Henriques is renowned for its commitment to traditional Madeira wine production. Its philosophy combines careful grape selection, time-honoured ageing methods, and rigorous quality control to create wines of exceptional balance and longevity.

Unlike many Madeira wine houses, the company owns vineyards on the island, allowing it to maintain close oversight of viticulture and grape quality. This vertical integration contributes to the consistency and authenticity of its wines.

Production focuses on the island’s noble grape varieties, including Sercial, Verdelho, Bual, and Malvasia, as well as rarer grapes such as Terrantez. Each variety reflects a distinctive style, ranging from dry and vibrant to rich and lusciously sweet.

Henriques & Henriques employs both the traditional canteiro system—where wines age slowly in oak casks exposed to natural warmth—and the estufagem process for certain styles. These methods contribute to the remarkable longevity and complexity for which Madeira wine is famous. To learn more, see Madeira Winemaking.

4. Wines to Know

Aged Reserve Wines

Henriques & Henriques produces a range of aged Madeira wines, including 10, 15, and 20 Year Old expressions. These wines showcase the distinctive characteristics of the island’s principal grape varieties.

Sercial

Typically dry and vibrant, Sercial-based Madeiras from Henriques & Henriques display bright acidity, citrus notes, and remarkable freshness.

Verdelho

Verdelho offers a medium-dry style with layered complexity, combining nutty, smoky, and gently sweet flavours.

Bual

Rich and medium-sweet, Bual Madeira delivers notes of caramel, dried fruits, and spice, balanced by lively acidity.

Malvasia

Also known as Malmsey, this style represents the sweetest expression of Madeira wine, characterised by opulent textures and flavours of toffee, coffee, and raisins.

Colheita and Frasqueira

The house is also known for releasing vintage-dated wines, including Colheita and Frasqueira Madeiras, aged for extended periods to achieve exceptional depth and elegance.

5. Visiting Henriques & Henriques

Henriques & Henriques is located in Câmara de Lobos, a picturesque town near Funchal on the island of Madeira. Visitors can explore the producer’s facilities, learn about traditional ageing techniques, and taste a selection of Madeira wines.

Tours and tastings are typically available by appointment. For the most up-to-date information, visitors are encouraged to consult the official website before planning their visit.

6. Interesting Facts

• Henriques & Henriques is one of the few Madeira wine producers to own and manage its own vineyards on the island.
• The company is renowned for its extensive stocks of aged Madeira wines.
• Its modern winery in Câmara de Lobos reflects a blend of innovation and tradition.
• The producer works with both traditional and rare grape varieties associated with historic Madeira wine.
• Henriques & Henriques has played an important role in preserving the heritage and reputation of Madeira wine worldwide.

7. Related Madeira Wine Producers

Blandy’s – One of the most historic Madeira wine houses, Blandy’s shares a commitment to traditional ageing methods and global recognition.

Barbeito – Known for its innovation and precision, Barbeito offers a modern contrast to the classical style of Henriques & Henriques.

D’Oliveiras – Celebrated for its extensive historic stocks, this producer parallels Henriques & Henriques in preserving rare and aged Madeira wines.

Justino’s – A major Madeira wine producer with a strong export presence and a wide range of traditional styles.

8. FAQs About Henriques & Henriques

When was Henriques & Henriques founded?

Henriques & Henriques was founded in 1850 by João Gonçalves Henriques.

Where is Henriques & Henriques located?

The producer is based in Câmara de Lobos on the island of Madeira, Portugal.

Can you visit Henriques & Henriques?

Yes. Tours and tastings are available by appointment, offering visitors insight into traditional Madeira wine production and ageing.

What wines is Henriques & Henriques known for?

The producer is known for high-quality Madeira wines made from classic grape varieties such as Sercial, Verdelho, Bual, and Malvasia, as well as vintage-dated Colheita and Frasqueira releases.

Does Henriques & Henriques own vineyards?

Yes. Unlike many Madeira wine houses, Henriques & Henriques owns vineyards on the island, enabling greater control over grape quality and production.