£9.00, 50cl, 20%, Jerez, Spain
Many of us in the wine world have long extolled the virtues of Sherry, and in particular bone dry Fino and Manzanilla styles. But at this time of year, it’s time for something a little warmer and comforting.
I’m a huge fan of the Sainsburys range of Taste The Difference sherries ( the Fino is brilliant) from the renowned Sherry producer Lustau, and this is no exception.
Rich amber in colour, swirl it around the glass and it hits the nose with scents of walnuts and burnt toffee. Taste it and it’s a heady mix of the same, with cinder toffee and slightly burnt roasted walnuts; the flavours start with a rich intensity, and progress to a searingly dry finish, lingering and lengthy. It has an almost umami-like intensity.
Great with a slab of mature hard cheese, be it cheddar or manchego, with a side of walnuts – but don’t be afraid of trying a glass with a rich, spiced stew, and it has enough depth to balance and cope.
Angela... The Full Glass 