Drinks in Madeira: Top 10 Drinks to Try (2025 Edition)

Drinks in Madeira are famous worldwide, from the fortified Madeira Wine to local favorites like Poncha and Nikita. In this guide, I’ll share the top 10 drinks in Madeira that you must try when visiting the island, including where to taste them and insider tips from a local.

Madeira isn’t just about stunning views, its drinks tell stories of the island’s people, traditions, and flavors. I cannot remember the precise first time I tried Poncha, but it was probably in Poiso in a cold winter day, but I do remember the feeling of that warm, honeyed taste. From the world-renowned Madeira Wine to refreshing soft drinks like Laranjada, Madeira offers something for every taste.

Plan your Madeira trip and taste these drinks! Trust me, having a local guide adds so much flavor to the experience.

1. Madeira Wine: History & Tasting Tips

Madeira Wine is a fortified wine available in dry, medium-dry, and sweet styles. I love sipping it slowly with some ice, while watching the sunset, or in a cozy sofa after a long day of hiking. Fun fact: back in 1776, Madeira Wine was used to toast the Declaration of Independence of the USA! Can you imagine enjoying the same wine centuries later?

Where to taste: My favorite cellars in Funchal are Blandy’s Lodge and H.M. Borges. They both offer tastings with a warm, personal touch.

Want to taste Madeira with a local? Join a guided Madeira wine tour and explore Funchal’s best wine cellars. Learn the history, enjoy tastings, and discover why Madeira Wine is world-famous!

2. Poncha: The Island’s Traditional Drink

Poncha, Madeira’s iconic drink, is made with Aguardente de cana, honey, sugar, and lemon juice, mixed using a tool called a mexelote. Madeirans even say it can cure a cold! I remember my aunt used to give to me and my brothers a sip, when we were ill, to warm up in bed.

Where to try: Many bars in Old Town Funchal, Camara de Lobos Bay and around the island serve Poncha. You can follow my favorite Poncha Route here; it’s a fun way to explore the island one drink at a time, but only if you are NOT driving afterwards. It tastes like juice but it’s super strong, beware! 😉

Want to enjoy Poncha safely without worrying about driving? Book a guided tour and let a local take you to the best tasting spots!

3. Pé de Cabra: Câmara de Lobos Specialty

This unique local drink combines black beer, dry Madeira wine, sugar, lemon, and powdered chocolate over ice. I discovered it in Câmara de Lobos, and the mix of flavors was surprisingly delicious, a perfect drink while sitting by the harbor watching fishermen return from their day.

Where to try: Most bars in Camara de Lobos bay serve it, try Bar Filhos D’Mar or Number Two.

4. Nikita: Creamy & Refreshing Drink in Madeira

Nikita is a creamy cocktail made with vanilla ice cream, pineapple juice, sugar, and beer. There’s also a non-alcoholic version, which I enjoy on hot afternoons after a long walk. Sweet, cold, and tropical — it feels like summer in a glass.

Where to try: Most of the bars in Camara de Lobos bay serve Nikita, but for the original recipe since 1985 try Casa do Farol ” A Nikita original since 1985″, a true local classic!

5. Laranjada (non-alcoholic drink): The Historic Soft Drink in Madeira

Laranjada, launched in 1872, is a carbonated orange soft drink and a Madeira classic. It’s especially popular during summer festivals (“Arraiais”). I love sipping it while people-watching during a sunny street fair it’s refreshing and brings a taste of nostalgia.

Where to taste it: You can find it in most supermarkets, local bars or restaurants, however if you wish to taste it while enjoying  the atmosphere of “Arraiais” during summertime, book a hotel in São Vicente for the end of august, and enjoy one of the biggest summer parties in Madeira – Festas de São Vicente, Madeira.

6. Sidra: Apple Spirit of Santo da Serra

Sidra is a light, low-alcohol drink made from fermented apples. I first tasted it after a morning hike at the Santo da Serra Sunday Market; crisp, slightly sweet, and incredibly refreshing. Perfect for a sunny Madeira afternoon! Nowadays, the local beer company Coral has also launched their own version of Sidra, including flavors made with red fruits, giving locals and visitors even more ways to enjoy the island’s unique beverages.

Where to taste it: While exploring Funchal’s Farmer’s Market, head up to the rooftop bar Madeira Beer Lab by Coral. Sip a refreshing Sidra or a cold beer in the sunshine while overlooking the market for the perfect midday break. If you’re visiting Santo da Serra, stop by Craftbar Santo da Serra to try the local craft cider “The Drunken Pharmacist,” a standout example of Madeira’s award-winning cider tradition.

7. Coffee Culture: Garoto, Bica & Chinesa

Madeira takes coffee seriously! Whether it’s a small ‘Bica’ (espresso) or a ‘Garoto’ (espresso with a splash of milk) to kickstart the day, or a creamy ‘Chinesa’ (our version of a latte) after lunch, I always make time for a coffee break while wandering Funchal. The aroma alone is enough to pause and savor the moment.

Where to taste it: Classic cafés like the fancy Golden Gate Café and local affordable bakeries such as Penha d’Águia are perfect spots to enjoy your coffee in the city. Forest Food & Coffee is a good option for a charming mountain café.

Enjoy a coffee break at Forest Food & Coffee, a charming mountain café in Parque Ecológico, Madeira.

8. Ginja: Curral das Freiras Liqueur

Ginja is a cherry liqueur from the “Nun’s Valley,” often enjoyed during with Molasses Cake or biscuits. I first tried it at Christmas, a hint of sweetness instantly reminds me of family gatherings and my parent’s home.

Where to taste it: Ginja can be tasted in a chocolate cup at UAU Cacau Café in Funchal. For the authentic Nun’s Valley version, head to Sabores do Curral, where you can try the original liqueur along with variations like Rhum de Ginja, Ginjinha do Curral, and the refreshing Ginja Fresh cocktail.

9. Brisa (non-alcoholic drinks): Passion Fruit & Other Flavours

• Brisa: Carbonated fruity soft drink (passion fruit, apple, lemon, orange)

Fun fact: Brisa Maracujá, the first soft drink made from pure passion fruit juice, has won 14 Large Gold Medals from Monde Selection.

My favorite is Brisa Maracujá, the passion fruit flavor is intense and unforgettable!

Where to taste it: Brisa is available almost everywhere, restaurants, cafés, and bars across the island.

10. Coral Beer: Local Brewery Favorite

Produced by Madeira Brewery since 1872, Coral Beer is pale golden, aromatic, and light-bodied. I love pairing it with lupins while enjoying the ocean view , it’s a taste of Madeira in every sip!

Where to taste it: You’ll find Coral Beer in almost every restaurant and bar in Madeira. My favorite version is Coral *Puro Malte* , and nice spots to enjoy it include the beach bars at Praia Formosa, such as Beira Calhau, On Water Academy, or Docas Café.

Plan Your Tasting Tour

Want to taste these drinks on your trip? Check out GetYourGuide’s Madeira tasting tours to book experiences directly.

Conclusion

From Poncha to Coral Beer, Madeira’s drinks are more than just beverages,  they’re a taste of the island’s culture! Every sip brings back memories of sunny days, friendly locals, and my favorite spots around Funchal. Cheers to tasting Madeira! 🍹

Make the most of your Madeira Trip! Book a cozy hotel to relax after exploring the island’s mountains, beaches, and local bars.
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