From the chalky soils of Jerez in Southern Spain and the Palomino white grape that grows there, we bring you the ultimate summer picnic party wines – Fino and Manzanilla sherries. These are sensational food wines with their saltiness and super fresh acidities.
Manzanillas are classically lighter wines, whereas Finos have a bit more body and richness. Both styles are pale, delicate and bone-dry – they’re ‘prancing thoroughbreds of a palate-reviver at only 15% alcohol that tingles with life and zest,’ says Jancis Robinson MW.
These are dazzlingly good and very well priced. Not convinced by having a glass of ice-cold sherry on the rocks? Try it as a spritzer with soda or lemonade and a dash of citrus.
‘If God had not made Sherry, how imperfect his work would have been.’
– Benito Perez Galdos
Broadly speaking, you have two groups of proper sherry – the pale, light and dry Manzanillas and Finos and then the darker, nuttier, slightly higher in alcohol wines (mostly dry, sometimes sweet). There’s a style for every season and occasion.
Sherry has been made in Southern Spain for centuries and Lustau, established in 1896, is one of the most famous producers, with their almacenistas winning ‘Best Fortified Winemaker’ in London for more than a decade. This is remarkable because they’re only a small to medium-sized bodega for Sherry. View their entire range here.
Tasting Notes:
Emilio Lustau Manzanilla Papirusa NV
‘Complex and rich with savoury ripe citrus and fresh, yeasty nut aromas; vibrant and energetic with a lingering salty finish.’ – Decanter World Wine Awards, 92/100
Emilio Lustau Fino del Puerto NV
‘Bright, with lemon pulp, talc and chamomile notes. A chalky edge holds the finish, giving this a dried, chiseled feel. Drink now.’ – James Molesworth, Wine Spectator, 90/100
