Sherry, a fortified wine from Spain’s Andalusia region, has long been a staple in the world of wine. This versatile wine, made primarily from the Palomino, Pedro Ximénez, and Muscat grape varieties, comes in a variety of styles, from dry and crisp to rich and sweet. Sherry wines have been enjoying a resurgence in popularity, thanks to their distinctive flavors, history, and versatility in pairing with food. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or new to sherry, knowing which bottles to pick can enhance your enjoyment of this unique wine category.
In this article, we will explore the 8 best sherry wines for drinking, showcasing a range of styles that represent the finest examples of what this remarkable wine has to offer. From classic dry Fino to decadent Pedro Ximénez, each wine selected here brings something special to the table. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a better understanding of which sherries suit your taste profile and how to enjoy them.
What is Sherry?
Before diving into the list of the best sherry wines, it’s important to understand what makes sherry unique. Sherry is a fortified wine made in the “Sherry Triangle,” a region in southern Spain that includes the towns of Jerez de la Frontera, Sanlúcar de Barrameda, and El Puerto de Santa María. The process of making sherry involves fortifying the base wine with brandy, which increases its alcohol content and enables a wider range of flavors to develop. Sherry is also aged using the Solera system, a method that blends different vintages over time to create a consistent product.
There are several distinct types of sherry, categorized by their aging processes and the amount of exposure to air. The main styles include:
Fino: Dry and light, with delicate flavors of almonds and yeast.
Amontillado: Aged longer than Fino, resulting in a richer, nutty flavor.
Oloroso: Darker and richer, with complex flavors of dried fruit, nuts, and spices.
Pedro Ximénez (PX): A sweet, rich wine made from sun-dried grapes, known for its luscious, syrupy texture.
Cream: A blend of Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez, offering a balance of richness and sweetness.
Now, let’s explore the 8 best sherry wines to drink, showcasing a variety of styles that will appeal to different palates.
1. Tio Pepe Fino
Overview
Tio Pepe is one of the most iconic brands of Fino sherry and has become a benchmark for the style. Produced by Gonzalez Byass, one of the oldest and most respected sherry producers, Tio Pepe Fino is a pale, dry wine that’s crisp, refreshing, and incredibly versatile. It is made from the Palomino grape, which thrives in the chalky soils of Jerez.
Tasting Notes
Tio Pepe Fino boasts a light, delicate nose with aromas of almonds, fresh dough, and a subtle hint of salt. On the palate, it’s dry, crisp, and bracing, with bright acidity and a characteristic yeasty flavor. The finish is clean and refreshing, making it the perfect aperitif.
Why It’s Great
Tio Pepe Fino is widely regarded as one of the best examples of dry sherry. It’s a quintessential Fino that embodies the classic style—perfect for drinking on its own or pairing with seafood, olives, or cured meats. Its refreshing qualities make it an ideal choice for warm-weather drinking or light meals.
2. La Cigarrera Manzanilla
Overview
Manzanilla is a unique style of sherry that is made exclusively in the coastal town of Sanlúcar de Barrameda, where the influence of the nearby Atlantic Ocean gives it a distinctive salty character. La Cigarrera is a family-owned winery that produces some of the finest Manzanilla available, and their expression of this style is a must-try for any sherry lover.
Tasting Notes
La Cigarrera Manzanilla presents a pale golden color with aromas of green olives, brine, and a slight nuttiness. On the palate, it’s dry, crisp, and lively, with a subtle saline quality that’s characteristic of Manzanilla. The wine finishes clean and refreshing, with an aftertaste of almonds and citrus.
Why It’s Great
La Cigarrera Manzanilla is an excellent representation of this coastal style, with its briny, oceanic notes and refreshing acidity. It pairs perfectly with tapas, especially seafood dishes like fried fish, prawns, and anchovies. This sherry also works well with lighter fare, such as salads and cured ham.
3. Bodegas Tradición Amontillado
Overview
Bodegas Tradición is one of the few sherry producers that focuses exclusively on aged wines. Their Amontillado is a beautiful example of this style, which is a hybrid of Fino and Oloroso. Amontillado is first aged under flor (the protective yeast layer) like Fino, but then undergoes oxidative aging once the flor dies, giving it a richer, nuttier character.
Tasting Notes
Bodegas Tradición Amontillado has a deep amber color with aromas of hazelnuts, dried fruit, and a touch of spices. On the palate, it’s dry yet rich, with flavors of toffee, almonds, and a hint of leather. The finish is long, complex, and slightly salty, reflecting its oxidative aging process.
Why It’s Great
This Amontillado is rich and nuanced, making it ideal for sipping on its own or paired with strong-flavored foods. Try it with aged cheeses, foie gras, or even a hearty stew. Its depth and complexity make it a wine that can be enjoyed at a leisurely pace.
4. Lustau Oloroso Solera Reserva
Overview
Lustau is one of the most renowned producers of sherry, known for its wide range of excellent wines. Their Oloroso Solera Reserva is an exceptional example of this dark, rich style, which is aged in a system of barrels, allowing it to develop deep, complex flavors over time.
Tasting Notes
Lustau Oloroso has a dark amber color and a nose filled with rich aromas of raisins, figs, and roasted nuts. On the palate, it is full-bodied and dry, with flavors of caramel, coffee, and dark chocolate, accompanied by a smooth, round texture. The finish is long, with a hint of spice and a touch of warming alcohol.
Why It’s Great
Lustau’s Oloroso Solera Reserva is a stunning expression of the Oloroso style, with its deep, savory flavors and smooth texture. It pairs beautifully with red meats, game, and rich, creamy dishes like mushroom risotto. It’s also an excellent choice for those who appreciate a bolder, more full-bodied wine.
5. Pedro Ximénez El Candado
Overview
For those who enjoy sweeter wines, Pedro Ximénez (PX) is a must-try. El Candado is one of the finest examples of this deeply sweet, rich sherry. Made from sun-dried Pedro Ximénez grapes, El Candado is a luscious, syrupy wine that is perfect for dessert or as a sipping wine.
Tasting Notes
El Candado has an intense dark color, almost black, with aromas of figs, raisins, and molasses. On the palate, it is incredibly sweet, with flavors of dark chocolate, coffee, and caramelized sugar. The texture is viscous and smooth, and the finish is long and indulgent.
Why It’s Great
El Candado is an exquisite dessert wine, perfect for pairing with chocolate, blue cheese, or a rich fruit tart. It’s also fantastic when sipped slowly by itself, allowing you to savor its complex, sweet flavors. For those who love rich, sweet wines, this PX is an outstanding choice.
6. Valdespino Fino Inocente
Overview
Valdespino is a historic producer of sherry, known for its high-quality, terroir-driven wines. Their Fino Inocente is one of the finest examples of Fino sherry, made exclusively from the Palomino grape and aged for several years under a thick layer of flor in the town of Jerez de la Frontera.
Tasting Notes
Valdespino Fino Inocente is pale straw-colored with aromas of fresh almonds, sea breeze, and green apples. On the palate, it’s dry and crisp, with a vibrant acidity and flavors of dried herbs, citrus, and a hint of salt. The finish is clean and refreshing, making it an ideal aperitif.
Why It’s Great
Fino Inocente is a classic Fino, with all the finesse and brightness that fans of the style love. It pairs wonderfully with seafood, light salads, and traditional Spanish tapas. It’s a great choice for those who appreciate a dry, refreshing wine with a lot of character.
7. Gonzalez Byass Matusalem Oloroso
Overview
Gonzalez Byass is one of the most famous sherry houses, and their Matusalem Oloroso is a flagship wine that represents the best of the Oloroso style. This wine is aged for a long period in the traditional Solera system, resulting in a complex, rich profile.
Tasting Notes
Matusalem Oloroso is deep amber in color with aromas of roasted nuts, dried fruit, and baking spices. On the palate, it’s rich and dry, with flavors of toffee, figs, and a touch of leather. The finish is long, with lingering notes of dried fruit and a slight nutty bitterness.
Why It’s Great
Matusalem Oloroso is a beautifully balanced wine with a depth of flavor that makes it ideal for pairing with roasted meats, strong cheeses, and hearty stews. It’s also a fantastic choice for those who want a rich, sophisticated wine to enjoy slowly.
8. Bodegas Osborne Pedro Ximénez 1827
Overview
Bodegas Osborne is a well-respected producer, known for its top-quality sherries. Their Pedro Ximénez 1827 is a luxurious, age-old wine that showcases the best characteristics of the PX style. This wine is made from sun-dried Pedro Ximénez grapes, aged for years in oak casks.
Tasting Notes
Osborne’s Pedro Ximénez 1827 is dark and rich, with aromas of dried figs, dates, and toffee. On the palate, it’s luscious and sweet, with flavors of molasses, dark chocolate, and a hint of espresso. The wine has a smooth, syrupy texture and a long, satisfying finish.
Why It’s Great
Pedro Ximénez 1827 is a decadent dessert wine that pairs wonderfully with rich desserts, such as chocolate cake, or blue cheese. It’s also perfect for sipping slowly, allowing you to appreciate its complexity and luxurious mouthfeel.
Conclusion
Sherry is a wine with incredible diversity and depth, and these eight selections represent some of the best the category has to offer. Whether you’re in the mood for a crisp, dry Fino, a rich and nutty Amontillado, or a decadent, sweet Pedro Ximénez, there’s a sherry for every occasion. Sherry’s versatility makes it an excellent choice for pairing with food, whether you’re enjoying a casual tapas dinner or indulging in a rich dessert. As you explore these wines, you’ll gain a greater appreciation for the artistry and tradition behind sherry production, and you may just find your new favorite wine.
Related topics:
- 7 Best Dry Sherry for Cocktails
- 6 Best Types of Sherry for Trifle
- How Many Calories in a Small Glass of Sherry?
