Classic Manzanilla (Half bottle)

Vineyards

Sourced from the historic Jerez region in Andalusia, Spain, this Manzanilla is crafted solely from Palomino Fino grapes grown on the region's albariza soils, rich in chalky limestone. This unique soil composition enhances the wine's mineral profile and supports the flor yeast essential to Manzanilla’s ageing process, imparting a distinct coastal salinity and vibrancy.

Winemaking

After an early September harvest, the Palomino Fino grapes undergo a gentle first pressing, yielding a light, fresh base wine. The wine is then fortified to 15% ABV before entering the solera system, a series of American oak casks, to age under flor (a natural yeast layer) in Sanlúcar de Barrameda. This traditional criaderas and solera method is used to create the wine’s characteristic freshness and complexity, with an average ageing period of three years. Only a portion of the final cask is bottled each year to maintain the solera’s quality.

Appearance

A pale straw yellow with a bright, clear sheen.

Nose

A distinctive, tangy aroma with notes of yeast, sea breeze, and citrus, underscored by subtle nutty hints, evoking the coastal influence of Sanlúcar.

Palate

Crisp and refreshing, with green apple and citrus notes followed by a savoury, nutty tang. The finish is long and clean, leaving a lingering impression of coastal saltiness and a hint of almond.

Food pairing

Best served chilled with tapas such as salted almonds, fried fish, or seafood, including tortillas de camarones. It also pairs beautifully with smoked salmon, with the wine’s acidity balancing the richness of the fish.

Background story

Bodegas Fernando de Castilla, a renowned sherry producer in Jerez, has long upheld a tradition of crafting quality sherries using age-old methods. With an emphasis on purity and terroir, the estate produces wines that capture the essence of Andalusia’s coastal vineyards, bringing forward authentic expressions of the region's heritage.