Tinta Negra Mole is a versatile red grape variety predominantly grown on the Portuguese island of Madeira, where it serves as the mainstay for the island’s famed fortified wines. Its adaptability to varying altitudes and soils has made it the most widely planted grape on Madeira. Aromatically, Tinta Negra Mole delivers a bouquet of red cherries, dark plum, dried fruits, and subtle floral tones, often layered with notes of caramel, spice, and smoky earth when vinified as Madeira.
On the palate, this grape expresses a balanced acidity with medium to light body, lending the finished wines lively freshness and approachability. In fortified wine styles, Tinta Negra Mole successfully emulates both the sweet richness of Malvasia and the dryness of Sercial, depending on vinification techniques. As a still wine, although less common, it showcases ripe red fruit characters and a soft texture.
Ideal pairings include salty hard cheeses, roasted nuts, dried fruits, or classic Madeiran dishes like espetada (grilled beef skewers) and black scabbard fish with banana. Sweeter styles pair effortlessly with rich desserts such as fruitcake or almond tart. Tinta Negra Mole’s adaptability makes it a cornerstone of Madeira’s winemaking heritage and a rewarding discovery for enthusiasts.