Sherry Wine
Sherry is a type of fortified wine made from white grapes grown in the Jerez region of Spain. It's known for its distinctive flavor profile, which ranges from dry to sweet.
Types of Sherry
Fino: A dry, crisp Sherry with a delicate flavor.
Manzanilla: A dry, nutty Sherry with a slightly salty flavor.
Amontillado: A dry, nutty Sherry with a rich, complex flavor.
Oloroso: A rich, full-bodied Sherry with a nutty, caramel flavor.
Pedro Ximénez (PX): A sweet, dessert Sherry made from sun-dried grapes.
Cream Sherry: A sweet, blended Sherry with a rich, creamy texture.
Process of Making Sherry
Harvesting: Grapes are harvested in late summer, typically in September.
Pressing: Grapes are pressed to extract the juice, which is then fermented.
Fermentation: The juice is fermented to create a dry, still wine.
Fortification: The wine is fortified with a neutral grape spirit to increase the alcohol content.
Aging
The fortified wine is aged in a solera system, where younger wines are blended with older wines to create a consistent flavor profile.
Flor Yeast
A layer of flor yeast is allowed to form on the surface of the wine, which contributes to the development of the Sherry's distinctive flavor.
Blending
The aged wines are blended to create the desired flavor profile.
Bottling
The final blend is bottled and ready for consumption.
Sherry production is a complex and nuanced process that requires great skill and expertise. The end result is a unique and delicious wine that's perfect for sipping or pairing with food.