The perfect classic aperitif, we always have a bottle ready in the fridge.
Powerful and intense aromatics with a textured absolutely bone dry, aristocratic and very poised palate. Smooth on the approach and perfectly seamless right until the finish where fascinating savoury, nutty, ripples conjure some charming, subtle and elusive final flavours. Fino Sherry, it is beyond dispute, is absolutely the most incredible and undervalued alcoholic drink there is.
One of the most exceptional of the small, independent sherry houses, Fernando de Castilla was revitalised in 1999 by Jan Pettersen - a Norwegian with a passion for top quality sherry, and 15 years experience at Osborne. After taking over the cellars of the Sherry shipper Jose Bustamante, located next door to the main facilities of Fernando de Castilla, Jan quickly established Fernando de Castilla as masters of the production and ageing of fine, unblended, untreated Sherries.
Grapes are sourced from Fernando de Castilla's partner vineyards in the Jerez district on Albariza (dazzlingly white limestone) soils. Picking takes place in early September.
The wine is made from the first pressing of grapes, this gives a light fresh style. Fermentation takes place at relatively high temperatures to reduce fruit flavour. This makes a very neutral wine which is perfect for the production of sherry. The wine undergoes malolactic fermentation. In the February after harvest the wine is fortified with grape brandy up to 15% abv. Once at this stage the wine is then added to the youngest Criadera in the Solera. The wine then begins its ageing process under flor. Only 20% of finished wine can be removed from the Solera in one year. The average age of the Fino solera is 4-4.5 years old.
Serve ice cold with fish based tapas or keep it simple with a handful of salted almonds.
