Manzanilla Solear

Solear is a Manzanilla from Bodegas Barbadillo in Sanlúcar de Barrameda, the seaside town at the mouth of the Guadalquivir where the cooler, more humid Atlantic air sets Manzanilla apart from sherry made inland. The wine is fermented from Palomino, the most delicate parcels selected and fortified to 15 percent, the level at which flor can survive but spoilage yeasts cannot. It then ages under flor, the living veil of yeast that forms on the wine's surface in the cellar and feeds on it, shielding it from oxygen and leaving a fresh, saline, slightly bitter signature. Sanlúcar's mild, damp climate keeps the flor active all year, so the biological ageing is more continuous than further inland. Solear spends six years under veil through the criaderas and soleras, making it one of the more aged Manzanillas on the market. The colour is pale yellow with bright reflections. The nose is aromatic, with almond, baked apple, chamomile and a leesy, doughy note. The palate is mellow and bone dry with a saline tang and a clean, lightly bitter finish that lingers. Serve very cold at 7 to 9 degrees. It is a natural aperitif with seafood.