“Madeira isn’t typically regarded as a potential cocktail ingredient. However, it has been used in cocktails since the late-19th century! Thanks to renewed interest in the fortified wine, we’re starting to see adventurous bartenders use it again in their creations.”

A few of our favorites from a list of classics from Bespoke Unit include:

Madeira Cobbler

An absolute classic and arguably the quintessential Madeira cocktail, the cobbler is a refreshing beverage that we suggest you try!

You will need the following ingredients:

• 75 ml (2½ Oz) Dry Madeira
• 15 ml (½ Oz) Dark Rum
• 1 Tsp Simple Syrup
• Orange Peels
• Blackberries

Fill a tumbler will ice to cool it while you prepare the ingredients. Shake the rum, Madeira, and simple syrup with some orange peel and blackberries. If you only have sweet Madeira, you can skip the simple syrup. Once the shaker is cold to the touch, empty the prepared glass and add fresh crushed ice.

Strain the ingredients into the tumbler and add fresh and unused fruit as garnish.

The Queen Of The Night

Although a prosecco cocktail goes by the same name, this version predates it. In fact, it first appeared in William Schmidt’s The Flowing Bowl in 1891. Today, its historical background has made it a particularly popular Madeira cocktail.

It consists of the following:

• 45 ml (1½ Oz) Medium Dry Madeira
• 45 ml (1½ Oz) Tawny Port
• 1 Dash Cognac
• 15 ml (½ Oz) Rose Water
• 8 ml (¼ Oz) Simple Syrup

Simply pour all the ingredients into a shaker filled with crushed ice and stir. Strain the ingredients into a coupe or cocktail glass. You can use rose liqueur instead of rose water. If you do, consider halving the amount of Madeira to compensate.

Prince Of Wales

Another historical cocktail, this one is said to be treated by the then-price King Edward VII in the late-19th century. However, it actually first appeared in Drinking With Dickens that was written by Charles Dickens’ grandson.

It requires the following ingredients to make:

• 15 ml (½ Oz) Medium-Dry Madeira
• 15 ml (½ Oz) Cognac
• 15 ml (½ Oz) Champagne
• 1 Tsp Triple Sec
• 1 Dash Angostura Bitters
• 1 Cherry

Stir the ingredients in a cocktail shaker and strain into a coupe or champagne flute. Garnish with the cherry. Traditionally, it’s served in a glass mug or silver cup if you prefer.