For the love of: Sherry

The ABV (Alcohol by Volume) of sherry is usually between 15% and 20% (perhaps a little higher, in some instances), being fortified during production. Fino and Manzanilla sherries have dry styles, as do Amontillado and Oloroso productions. Sweeter options include Pedro Ximénez, which is great to pair with many desserts, at a dining occasion. DON LUIS FINO DEL PUERTO (16.5% vol) I found refreshing, with excellent flavour. This crisp production utilises the grape varietal to great advantage (100% Palomino grapes). Following fermentation, in stainless steel tanks, the wine then has 48 months in old American oak barrels. An impressive pre-dining drink, that also accompanies fish and paella dishes, extremely well. EL BENITO MANZANILLA (17% vol) spends 48 months in old American oak barrels, following fermentation in stainless steel tanks (100% Palomino grapes). A most pleasant bouquet entices to the mouth’s pleasures, evoking thoughts of apple-orchard fruits. Perfect to greet guests with and to have with tapas delectations, for example. DON GASPAR AMONTILLADO (18.5% vol) is produced with fermentation taking place in stainless steel tanks (100% Palomino grapes). Then, the wine has120 months in old American oak Jerezana barrels, to give this very impressive fortified wine its full and rich flavour. A delight for predining experiences, with friends and/or family. Also, splendid with foods, such as tapas dishes, etc. TORRE DEL ORO PALO CORTADO (19% vol) commences its journey from a vineyard with vines having an average age of 25 years. Stainless steel tanks are used for the fermentation process (100% Palomino grapes) and, after fortification, enter into the solera system for approx 4 years, to commence their ageing element. Selections are made by the winemaker, for the Palo Cortado classification. Following a further 8 years of ageing, the sherry is then bottled and released, with flavours hinting at orange and nutty notes. This, I consider, to be a superb example. I located these sherry productions at Waitrose, in their No.1 range, which is produced in partnership with the eminent sherry house of Lustau. I found Waitrose to have an excellent drinks section, with something for all tastes and palates. www.waitrose.com As always, Enjoy! Trevor Langley