An important reason for the success of the cottage industry wine is that the process of extracting the juice from the grapes, done by foot, results in a tannin (tanning agent) free must. This is because the seeds and panicles are not damaged when processed by human limbs before it enters the juice - unlike the mechanical presses which crush open these elements releasing the tannin.

The cottage industry wine is sometimes called “Café de Setembro” - September Coffee, which is the staple ceremonial drink in private rural homes across Madeira. Many an intrepid visitor to the Madeiran family home being overwhelmed by generous servings of homegrown nectars... If the wine is very good, and some is left after all the familial and amicable celebrations that may continue year long, then it may be stored in wooden casks to be matured for later consumption. The wine stored in this manner may be referred to as “Vinho Canteiro”.