Barbadillo Manzanilla ÁS de Mirabrás Sumatorio

Barbadillo, a family winery in Sanlúcar de Barrameda since 1821, produce this Manzanilla from Palomino grown on the chalk-white albariza soils of the Marco de Jerez. Manzanilla is a sherry aged specifically in Sanlúcar, on the Atlantic coast where humid sea air keeps the veil of flor yeast thick and active year round. This wine spends thirty-six months under flor, ageing biologically through the criaderas and soleras system. The living layer of flor sits on the wine's surface, feeding on alcohol and glycerine while shielding the wine from oxygen, which is what gives Manzanilla its bone-dry, saline and yeasty character rather than an oxidised one. The autolysis of dead yeast cells adds a bready, savoury depth. The colour is a light gold. The nose shows almond, chamomile, green apple and fresh bread dough, with a clear briny, coastal note. The palate is light, dry and crisp, with a salty tang and a clean, refreshing finish. Serve well chilled in a white-wine glass as an aperitif. It is a classic match for olives, almonds, fried fish and shellfish.