Harvey's Bristol Cream is a unique and distinctive type of alcohol known as sherry. Sherry is a fortified wine that is produced in the region of Jerez in southern Spain. It is made from white grapes, primarily the Palomino grape, and is fortified with brandy to increase its alcohol content.
Harvey's Bristol Cream is classified as a particularly full and rich style of sherry. It is renowned for its intense dried fruit and raisin character, which sets it apart from other sherries. When you take a sip of Harvey's Bristol Cream, you can expect to experience a sweet palate with a rich and lingering finish.
One of the defining characteristics of Harvey's Bristol Cream is its sweetness. It has a luscious and syrupy quality that is often associated with dessert wines. This sweetness is balanced by the wine's acidity, which provides a refreshing and vibrant quality to the overall taste.
The dried fruit and raisin flavors in Harvey's Bristol Cream are a result of the aging process. Like many sherries, it undergoes a solera system of aging, which involves blending younger wines with older ones to achieve a consistent and complex flavor profile. This aging process allows the wine to develop its characteristic dried fruit and raisin notes, along with hints of caramel and toffee.
Personally, I find Harvey's Bristol Cream to be a versatile and enjoyable drink. It can be enjoyed on its own as an aperitif or digestif, or paired with a variety of foods. Its sweetness and richness make it an excellent complement to desserts, such as chocolate or fruit-based dishes. It can also be paired with savory dishes, such as cheese or charcuterie, to add a touch of sweetness and complexity.
Harvey's Bristol Cream is a unique and indulgent style of sherry. Its intense dried fruit and raisin character, along with its sweet palate and rich finish, make it a beloved choice among sherry enthusiasts. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with food, Harvey's Bristol Cream offers a delightful and complex drinking experience.