FINO ‘INOCENTE’, Valdespino. Sherry (Half bottle)

Sherry comes from Jerez in south west Spain and Valdespino own 750 hectares of vineyard in the designated area. Innocente is a single vineyard on the Macharnudo Estate.

Palomino Fino fermented (most unusually) in oak barrels before being matured in a ‘solera’ system of 10 progressive ages (or Criaderas).

Valdespino has been a famous name in Jerez for centuries, and has been owned by the Estevez family since 1999. They are one of the few Sherry houses to own almost all their own vineyards, giving them full control of the product from start to finish.

Always drink Fino as young as possible; and finish up within a day or two of opening the bottle.

Pale and very dry with zesty lemon peel notes, green olive and warm bread. Full of vitality and freshness – long, racy and very refreshing. Along with Champagne the perfect aperitif and partner for canapés.

Great with tapas (of course) and a treat with a shellfish bisque.

“It’s been a few years since we reviewed one of the best finos on the market, and it remains a standout. From a single vineyard, and one of a vanishingly small number of sherries to be fermented in wooden barrels (rather than stainless steel), it has full-on flavours of green olives and Marmite on toast, but the feeling on the palate is fresh and light, right through to the salted nut finish. Rating: 92/100” – The Wine Gang, July 2015