Sherry: Difference between revisions
Created page with "'''Sherry''' (Spanish: Jerez [xeˈɾeθ]) is a fortified wine produced in the Andalusian region of southern Spain, primarily around the cities of Jerez de la Frontera, Sanlúcar de Barrameda and El Puerto de Santa María. The wine holds a protected designation of origin under the Denominaciones de Origen (DO) Jerez-Xérès-Sherry and Manzanilla-Sanlúcar de Barrameda, which defines both production zones and traditional practices<ref>..." |
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Latest revision as of 12:29, 26 August 2025
Sherry (Spanish: Jerez [xeˈɾeθ]) is a fortified wine produced in the Andalusian region of southern Spain, primarily around the cities of Jerez de la Frontera, Sanlúcar de Barrameda and El Puerto de Santa María. The wine holds a protected designation of origin under the Denominaciones de Origen (DO) Jerez-Xérès-Sherry and Manzanilla-Sanlúcar de Barrameda, which defines both production zones and traditional practices[1].
Background
The origins of Sherry reach back to antiquity, with evidence of viticulture in the Jerez area under the Phoenicians and Romans[2]. During the Moorish occupation, distillation techniques were introduced, which later influenced the fortification of wine. Sherry became a major export in the Middle Ages and Early Modern period, with England and the Netherlands as key markets. Figures such as William Shakespeare made frequent reference to the wine, cementing its reputation in European culture[3].
Production and Characteristics
The principal grape for Sherry is Palomino, cultivated extensively on the chalky albariza soils, while Pedro Ximénez and Moscatel are used for sweeter styles[4]. Fortification with grape spirit stabilises the wine and allows the development of various styles.
A defining feature of Sherry is the use of the solera system, a fractional ageing method where younger wines are progressively blended with older ones, ensuring consistency over time[5]. This technique contributes to the complexity and distinct oxidative or biological ageing profiles.
Styles
Sherry encompasses a wide spectrum of styles. Fino and Manzanilla are aged under a layer of flor yeast, which protects the wine from oxidation and gives it a pale, dry profile. Amontillado begins ageing under flor but undergoes subsequent oxidative maturation. Oloroso is fortified to prevent flor development, resulting in a fuller-bodied, darker wine. Sweet styles are produced either by blending or by using naturally sweet grapes such as Pedro Ximénez. Cream Sherries represent a category of blended sweetened wines, often popular in export markets[6].
Geographic Context
The so-called “Sherry Triangle” covers the municipalities of Jerez de la Frontera, Sanlúcar de Barrameda and El Puerto de Santa María. This area benefits from a warm Mediterranean climate moderated by Atlantic breezes, which encourage flor yeast growth, particularly in coastal towns like Sanlúcar. The albariza soils, rich in calcium carbonate, retain winter rainfall and sustain vines through the hot summers, playing a vital role in defining the regional terroir[7].
Wine Culture and Trade
Sherry’s history is closely tied to global commerce. British merchants established bodegas in Jerez during the 17th and 18th centuries, creating a strong export tradition[8]. Consumption peaked in the 19th and early 20th centuries, but demand declined later, especially for sweeter blended styles. In recent decades, there has been a revival of interest in drier, traditional Sherries, accompanied by renewed gastronomic pairings and recognition of its versatility. The Consejo Regulador continues to promote the wines globally, emphasising authenticity and heritage.
See also
References
- ↑ Consejo Regulador de las DD.OO. Jerez-Xérès-Sherry y Manzanilla, sherry.wine.
- ↑ García del Moral, Historia y cultura del vino de Jerez, Almuzara, 2009.
- ↑ Jeffs, Sherry, 4th ed., Mitchell Beazley, 2014.
- ↑ Johnson & Robinson, The World Atlas of Wine, 8th ed., 2019.
- ↑ Robinson (ed.), The Oxford Companion to Wine, Oxford University Press, 2015.
- ↑ Jeffs, Sherry, 2014.
- ↑ Johnson & Robinson, The World Atlas of Wine, 2019.
- ↑ Stevenson, The Sotheby’s Wine Encyclopedia, DK, 2011.