Sherry: A Classic Fortified Wine
Introduction
Sherry is a classic fortified wine that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is produced in the Jerez region of Spain, and has a unique taste and character that sets it apart from other wines. In this article, we’ll explore the history of sherry, how it’s made, and the various types of sherry that are available.
The History of Sherry
Sherry has a long and fascinating history that dates back to ancient times. The first known reference to sherry comes from the 13th century, when it was mentioned in a book by the Muslim historian Ibn al-Qutiya. Sherry was popular among the Moors, who ruled Spain until the 15th century.
In the 16th century, sherry began to gain popularity in England, where it was known as “sack”. It became a favorite of Queen Elizabeth I, who reportedly drank a glass of sherry every day. Sherry was also popular among sailors, who found that it could be stored for long periods of time without spoiling.
In the 19th century, sherry became a favorite of the British aristocracy, who enjoyed it as an aperitif before dinner. It was also popular in the United States, where it was used in cocktails such as the famous “Sherry Flip”.
How Sherry is Made
Sherry is made from the Palomino grape, which is grown in the Jerez region of Spain. The grapes are harvested in September or October, and are then pressed to extract the juice.
The juice is fermented in stainless steel tanks, and then fortified with brandy to increase its alcohol content. The wine is then aged in oak barrels, which impart flavor and character to the wine.
The aging process is crucial to the production of sherry. The barrels are stored in a special room called a “solera”, where they are arranged in a series of rows. The oldest barrels are kept at the bottom of the solera, while the newest barrels are at the top.
As the wine ages, a small amount of wine is taken from the oldest barrels and added to the newer barrels. This process, known as “fractional blending”, ensures that the flavors and aromas of the older wine are passed on to the younger wine.
Types of Sherry
There are several different types of sherry, each with its own unique flavor and character. The most common types of sherry include:
- Fino: A pale, dry sherry that is aged for several years. It has a crisp, nutty flavor and is often served as an aperitif.
- Manzanilla: Similar to Fino, but produced in the Sanlúcar de Barrameda region. It has a salty, floral flavor and pairs well with seafood.
- Amontillado: A medium-dry sherry that is aged for several years. It has a rich, nutty flavor and is often served with tapas.
- Oloroso: A sweet sherry that is aged for several years. It has a rich, dark color and a complex, nutty flavor.
- Cream: A sweet sherry that is made by blending Oloroso with Pedro Ximenez grapes. It has a rich, creamy texture and is often served as a dessert wine.
Pairing Sherry with Food
Sherry is a versatile wine that can be paired with a wide range of foods. Fino and Manzanilla sherry are perfect for pairing with seafood, while Amontillado and Oloroso sherry pair well with meats and cheeses.
Cream sherry is a popular choice for dessert, and pairs well with chocolate and other rich desserts. It can also be used as a substitute for sweet vermouth in cocktails such as the Manhattan.
Conclusion
Sherry is a classic fortified wine with a unique taste and character. Its long and fascinating history, along with its versatile flavor profile, has made it a favorite of wine lovers around the world. Whether you’re looking for an aperitif, a wine to pair with food, or a sweet dessert wine, sherry is definitely worth exploring. Cheers!