Fino Tres Palmas 2023

Fino Tres Palmas is part of the Palmas collection from Bodegas Tio Pepe in Jerez, a series graded by how long the wine has aged under flor, with Tres Palmas the third stage. It is made from Palomino grown on the chalky albariza soils of the Jerez region, pale soils that store winter rain and reflect light to ripen the fruit through the hot, dry summer. After fortification to around 16 percent the wine ages roughly ten years under a veil of flor, far longer than a standard Fino. Over that time the flor naturally thins, allowing a little controlled oxidation alongside the yeasty character, which gives this wine its singular, intense profile, almost on the edge of amontillado while still classed as a Fino. Only a small quantity is released. The colour is golden. The nose is intense and complex, with almond and toasted nuts, dried apricot, chamomile and a touch of bready depth. The palate is bone dry and concentrated, saline and savoury, with great length and a fine, slightly oxidative edge. Serve chilled at around 10 to 12 degrees in a white wine glass.