Valdespino Inocente Single Vineyard Fino

The Palomino grapes for the Fino ‘Inocente’ are grown in the Pago Macharnudo – one of the top single-vineyard sites on the Jerez DO. At 135 metres above sea level, it is one of the highest altitude sites in the region and has a south-east aspect with a 10% gradient – perfect exposure for the Palomino to reach optimum levels of ripeness. Soils are white ‘albariza’ - rich in calcium carbonate, silica and clay. Albariza has excellent water retention properties and acts like a sponge, but it also forms a hard surface layer when it dries out, preventing evaporation. After the harvest, channels are dug between the vines to exploit these properties and trap the winter rains, creating a water reserve to sustain the vines through the heat of the Jerezano summers, during which temperatures can exceed 38°C. Straw yellow in colour. Savoury aromas bread dough, almonds, olives and dried apples dominate on the nose. Bone dry and bracingly refreshing on the palate, with a saline minerality and a long and complex finish.

Classic with jamón ibérico, anchovies, fried fish, almonds and good olives.

• Sherry enthusiasts
• A serious aperitivo
• Tapas

A single-vineyard Fino from one of Jerez's historic houses. An outstanding gift for anyone serious about Sherry or wanting to understand the category properly.