Everything About Sherry (FAQ)

Sherry is a fortified wine that has been enjoyed for centuries in Spain and beyond.

With a complex flavor profile that ranges from nutty and savory to sweet and fruity, sherry is a versatile and intriguing beverage that is perfect for sipping on its own or using as a key ingredient in cocktails.

In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about sherry, from its history and production methods to its various styles and serving suggestions.

Whether you are a seasoned sherry aficionado or simply curious about this unique beverage, read on to discover the world of sherry.

What is sherry?

Sherry is a fortified wine with a complex flavor profile that ranges from nutty and savory to sweet and fruity. It is a versatile beverage that can be enjoyed on its own or used as a key ingredient in cocktails.

Where does sherry come from?

Sherry comes from the Jerez region in Spain. It is named after the town of Jerez de la Frontera, which is located in the southwestern part of the country.

How is sherry made?

Sherry is made from white grapes grown in the Jerez region of Spain.

After the grapes are harvested, they are pressed and fermented into a dry white wine.

The sherry-making process is then unique in that it involves the addition of brandy to the wine, which raises the alcohol content and creates a fortified wine.

The fortified wine is then aged in oak barrels using a solera system, which involves blending younger and older wines together to achieve consistency in flavor and quality.

The length of time that sherry is aged varies by style, ranging from a few years to several decades.

What are the different types of sherry?

There are several different types of sherry, including fino, manzanilla, amontillado, oloroso, cream, and Pedro Ximenez (PX) sherry.

What is fino sherry?

Fino sherry is a pale, delicate style of sherry that is aged under a layer of yeast called flor.

This aging process gives fino sherry its distinctive nutty and slightly salty flavor profile.

Fino sherry is typically served chilled and makes a great aperitif or accompaniment to light tapas dishes.

What is manzanilla sherry?

Manzanilla sherry is a delicate and pale style of sherry that is similar to fino sherry, but is produced exclusively in the coastal town of Sanlucar de Barrameda.

Like fino sherry, manzanilla sherry is aged under a layer of yeast called flor, which gives it its distinctive flavor profile.

However, the humid and salty air in Sanlucar de Barrameda gives manzanilla sherry a slightly different flavor than fino sherry, with a briny and sea-like character.

Manzanilla sherry is typically served chilled and pairs well with seafood dishes.

What is amontillado sherry?

Amontillado sherry is a medium-dry style of sherry that is produced from the same grape varieties as fino and manzanilla sherry, but is aged differently.

After undergoing a period of aging under flor, the layer of yeast is intentionally broken, allowing for oxidative aging to occur.

This process leads to a darker color and richer flavor profile than fino or manzanilla sherry, with notes of nuts, caramel, and dried fruit.

Amontillado sherry pairs well with aged cheeses, cured meats, and hearty stews.

What is oloroso sherry?

Oloroso sherry is a dark, full-bodied style of sherry that is aged oxidatively, without the layer of yeast called flor.

This results in a rich, nutty flavor profile with notes of toffee, figs, and caramel.

Oloroso sherry pairs well with rich, hearty dishes such as stews, roasted meats, and strong cheeses.

What is cream sherry?

Cream sherry is a style of sherry that is typically sweeter and richer than other styles.

It is made by blending oloroso sherry with a sweet wine, such as Pedro Ximenez sherry or Moscatel.

The resulting blend has a rich, creamy texture and a sweet, nutty flavor profile.

Cream sherry is often served as a dessert wine and pairs well with chocolate, nuts, and other sweet foods.

What is Pedro Ximenez (PX) sherry?

Pedro Ximenez (PX) sherry is a sweet style of sherry that is made from sun-dried grapes of the same name.

The grapes are left to dry in the sun for several days, concentrating their sugars and flavors.

The resulting wine is dark and syrupy, with a rich, sweet flavor profile that is reminiscent of raisins, dates, and figs.

PX sherry is often used as a dessert wine or poured over ice cream, and pairs well with strong cheeses and chocolate desserts.

How is sherry served?

Sherry is typically served in a wine glass or copita at room temperature or slightly chilled, depending on the style.

Fino and manzanilla sherry are usually served chilled, while oloroso and cream sherry are typically served at room temperature.

What foods pair well with sherry?

Sherry pairs well with a variety of foods, including salty snacks, cured meats, olives, almonds, and other nuts.

Fino and manzanilla sherry are great with seafood dishes and light tapas, while amontillado and oloroso sherry pair well with savory stews, aged cheeses, and roasted meats.

Cream sherry is often paired with chocolate and other sweet desserts, while Pedro Ximenez sherry is a great accompaniment to strong cheeses and chocolate desserts.

How long does sherry last once opened?

Once opened, sherry can last for several weeks to a few months if stored properly in a cool, dark place with a cork or stopper in place.

Fino and manzanilla sherry should be consumed within a week or two of opening, while oloroso and cream sherry can last for several months.

It’s best to consume sweet sherry, such as Pedro Ximenez, within a few weeks of opening.

How should sherry be stored?

Sherry should be stored in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

It should be stored upright and with a cork or stopper in place to prevent air from entering the bottle.

Once opened, sherry can be stored in the refrigerator for a few weeks to a few months, depending on the style.

What is the alcohol content of sherry?

The alcohol content of sherry can vary, but typically falls between 15% and 20% ABV (alcohol by volume).

What are the health benefits of drinking sherry?

Moderate consumption of sherry has been associated with some health benefits, including a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke.

Sherry contains flavonoids, which are antioxidants that may help to protect against cardiovascular disease.

How does sherry compare to other fortified wines?

Compared to other fortified wines, such as port or madeira, sherry has a lighter and more delicate flavor profile.

It also tends to have a lower alcohol content, typically falling between 15% and 20% ABV (alcohol by volume).

Sherry is also unique in that it is aged using a solera system, which involves blending younger and older wines together to achieve consistency in flavor and quality.

This aging process gives sherry its distinctive nutty and savory flavor profile, which sets it apart from other fortified wines.

Is sherry vegan?

Sherry is typically vegan-friendly, but it’s always best to check with the producer or consult a vegan wine guide to be sure.

Some sherries may use animal-derived fining agents during production, which would make them unsuitable for vegans.

Is sherry gluten-free?

Yes, sherry is gluten-free as it is made from grapes and does not contain any wheat, barley, or rye, which are the sources of gluten.

What cocktails can be made with sherry?

Sherry can be used as a key ingredient in a variety of cocktails, including the Sherry Cobbler, the Bamboo, and the Adonis.

It can also be used as a substitute for vermouth in classic cocktails like the Manhattan and the Negroni, or as a modifier in more complex drinks like the Tuxedo and the Chrysanthemum.