Sherry is a fortified white wine produced in the southwest of Andalusia, Spain, mainly from Palomino grapes. It has an alcohol content ranging from 15% to 22% and comes in both dry and sweet varieties.
How it is made
Sherry is made using two main methods: biological aging under a layer of yeast called 'flor' or oxidative aging. For both methods, barrels are not completely filled, leaving space for oxygen exposure. The wine is fortified with alcohol after fermentation, which helps preserve it and creates its characteristic flavors. Different styles of sherry are produced through varying combinations of grape varieties, aging methods, and fortification levels.
History
Sherry production dates back to ancient times, with evidence of similar wines found in a 1st-century CE urn near Carmona. The wine gained popularity in medieval Europe and was highly valued in England, where it was known as 'sack.' The modern style of sherry developed in the 18th century when winemakers discovered the unique properties of flor yeast and the solera aging system. British merchants played a significant role in developing the sherry trade, establishing many of the major bodegas that still exist today.
Types and styles
Sherry comes in various styles, including dry Fino and Manzanilla, and sweeter versions like those made from Pedro Ximenez and Moscatel grapes. The most famous style is Fino, a light, dry sherry aged under flor. Manzanilla is a lighter style of Fino produced specifically in the Sanlúcar de Barrameda area. Other styles include Amontillado, which starts biological aging but is then exposed to oxygen, creating a richer flavor profile.
How it is served
Sherry can be served in various ways depending on the style. Dry sherries like Fino and Manzanilla are typically served chilled as aperitifs. Sweeter styles work well as dessert wines or digestifs. Sherry is also a popular ingredient in cocktails, including classics like the Sherry Cobbler, Adonis, and Tuxedo. On this site, you can find recipes for 86 different cocktails that use sherry.
Adapted from the Russian Wikipedia article Херес, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Kinds of sherry
Other styles
- Fino
Well-known brands
- Tío Pepe
- Херес Массандра (Soviet Union)