Gourmet products local specialties and wines Madeira

This sugar cane press has existed since 1901. It works with the force of water and steam to produce a brandy, the result of the distillation of cane juice, through an alembic still. To see it in action, you will have to come at Easter time, as the activity is seasonal. For 6 weeks between April and May, about 50 seasonal workers heat the machines 24 hours a day. After a tasting stop, the basket can be filled with various products made from the venerated sugar cane.

The most original place in Funchal for a free and complete tasting of wines, rums and liqueurs. In this former Anglican church, classified as a historical store, Mr. Sousa, the octogenarian manager, creates a surprise by offering to taste the precious nectars in the basement. This partially exhibited collection (50,000 pieces), started in 1967, features Madeira wines from 1840 to today, young and old rums, liqueurs, port wines and other spirits at very competitive prices... Unique in its kind, not to be missed.