The Regional Department for Agriculture and Fisheries, through the Institute of Wine, Embroidery and Handicrafts of Madeira, IP-RAM (IVBAM), in partnership with the members of parliament representing Madeira in Parliament, gave a lecture on the Agricultural Rum of Madeira, followed by a tasting of rums accompanied with delicacies and chocolates, on 4 July in the restaurant of the new Parliament building.
In addition to the promotional component, the aim of this event was also to inform Members of Parliament of the socio-economic, historical and cultural importance of Madeira Rum, which is the only Agricultural Rum produced in Portugal and which is classified as a “Protected Geographical Indication” (PGI).
The activity, designed for about 100 members of parliament, started with a speech by one MP for Madeira, Sara Madruga, followed by a speech by the President of IVBAM, Paula Jardim Duarte, who also gave a presentation, description and tasting of several Madeira Rums – conducted by Madeiran sommelier Américo Pereira.
Rums from 4 Madeira rum producing companies were presented, namely: Engenho Novo da Madeira, Lda.; J. Faria & Filhos, Lda. (Engenhos do Norte); Sociedade dos Engenhos da Calheta, Lda. and Florentino Izildo de Gouveia Ferreira (O Reizinho).
The chocolates served to accompany some of the Madeira Rums were made by a Madeiran company.
Note that the entire space where the action took place was decorated with Madeira flowers and the floral arrangements enjoyed the collaboration of the renowned Madeiran architect, Dino Gonçalves.
This promotional activity was co-financed in 85% by community funds, under the Madeira 14-20 Programme, the remainder being borne by the regional budget.
