Sherry, specifically Amontillado, is a type of dry fortified wine made from 100% palomino grapes. It is a unique and complex wine that undergoes a fascinating aging process, resulting in its distinct characteristics.
The journey of Amontillado begins as a fino, which is a type of sherry that ages biologically under a layer of yeasts known as “flor.” This flor forms naturally on the surface of the wine, creating a protective layer that prevents excessive oxidation and imparts unique flavors and aromas to the wine. The flor feeds on the nutrients in the wine, resulting in a crisp and delicate fino sherry.
After a few years of aging under flor, the flor either dies naturally or is intentionally killed off by the addition of grape spirit. This marks the transition from fino to Amontillado. Once the flor is gone, the wine is exposed to oxygen and begins to age oxidatively, which further develops its flavors and aromas.
The oxidative aging process of Amontillado is crucial in shaping its distinctive characteristics. The exposure to air allows the wine to develop a deeper color, ranging from amber to mahogany, and a richer and more complex flavor profile. The previously delicate and fresh fino sherry transforms into a wine with nutty, caramel, and dried fruit notes.
One of the reasons Amontillado is so intriguing is the combination of its biological and oxidative aging processes. It possesses the freshness and elegance of a fino while also displaying the depth and complexity of an oxidatively aged wine. This duality makes Amontillado a versatile and fascinating wine to explore.
Amontillado can be enjoyed on its own as an aperitif or paired with a variety of foods. Its dryness and nutty flavors make it an excellent match for roasted nuts, aged cheeses, cured meats, and even seafood dishes. Its versatility allows it to complement a wide range of flavors and cuisines.
In addition to its taste, Amontillado also holds a special place in my heart due to personal experiences. I remember sipping a glass of Amontillado on a warm summer evening in Spain, surrounded by the picturesque vineyards where it was produced. The combination of the wine's complexity and the beautiful setting created a truly memorable moment.
To summarize, Amontillado is a dry fortified sherry made from 100% palomino grapes. It undergoes both biological aging under flor and oxidative aging in contact with air. This unique aging process gives Amontillado its distinct characteristics, combining the freshness of a fino with the richness and complexity of an oxidative sherry. Its versatility and intriguing flavors make it a wine worth exploring and enjoying.