The Founding Fathers toasted American independence in 1776 with Madeira Wine, and Washington raised that same glass again this June.
The 1776 Toast That Started It All
On Thursday, June 18, the Madeira Promotion Bureau hosted “A Toast to America” at the Residence of the Ambassador of Portugal in Washington, DC. The evening commemorated a little-known chapter of American history: after signing the Declaration of Independence, the Founding Fathers raised glasses of Madeira Wine. Nearly 400 guests gathered in honor of America250, including Miguel Albuquerque, President of the Regional Government of Madeira, Ambassador Francisco Duarte Lopes, Sara Marote of the Madeira Promotion Bureau, and a representative of the Presidency of the United States.
I attended thanks to my dear friend Kate of K Street Magazine, and what a fun way to toast our American history, our joint partnerships, and great food! Diplomats, journalists, travel trade professionals, and business leaders filled the residence with genuine transatlantic warmth.
Madeira Wine Shaped Early American History
Historians often call Madeira the drink of the Founding Fathers, and the title is well earned. This fortified wine from the Portuguese island of Madeira survived long ocean voyages, which made it the most popular imported luxury beverage in colonial America. It sealed the Declaration of Independence in 1776. It flowed at George Washington’s inaugural celebrations. It remains prized today for remarkable longevity and a singular flavor profile.
Madeira spans four classic styles: bright, dry Sercial pairs beautifully with seafood; medium-dry Verdelho offers smoky caramel notes; medium-sweet Bual delivers coffee, chocolate, and fig; and lush Malvasia, also called Malmsey, crowns chocolate desserts. Consequently, there is a Madeira for every palate and every course, from aperitif to after-dinner pour.
Madeiran Chefs and Blandy’s Brought the Island to DC
The evening’s specially curated menu wove together the flavors of Madeira and the United States, prepared by renowned Madeiran chefs Octávio Freitas of Desarma, Júlio Pereira, and Filipe Janeiro of Gazebo Experience. Professional sommeliers guided tastings of the island’s iconic fortified and still wines throughout the night.
Moreover, every guest departed with a wonderful gift: a tasting box from Blandy’s Madeira, the only founding family of the Madeira wine trade still owning and managing its original company. Since 1811, the Blandy family has preserved ancient ageing techniques passed down through generations, producing and bottling exclusively on the island. Each bottle reflects Madeira’s volcanic terroir and heritage grape varieties!
Why Madeira Matters to American Travelers Now
Beyond the history lesson, “A Toast to America” reinforced Madeira’s presence in one of its most important growth markets. Approximately 80,000 American visitors traveled to Madeira in 2025, and that number keeps climbing.
Getting there has never been easier: United Airlines operates seasonal nonstop service between Newark Liberty International Airport and Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport in Funchal, while TAP Air Portugal’s stopover program lets travelers add Lisbon or Porto to the journey. For dramatic Atlantic cliffs, levada hiking trails, and centuries-old wine lodges, plan your trip at Visit Madeira and follow the destination on Instagram.
The Washington Lobbyist proudly champions the diplomatic dinners, embassy events, and international friendships that make Washington the world’s capital of connection. Raise a glass with us — subscribe, follow along, and join us at the next great DC table!
