Superb Sherry. And A Tasty Crianza

Spanish Gems

 

Zuleta Fino, Jerez (DO), 15%, €9.15 Karwig Wines

Speaking of Fino and the other drier styles of Sherry, Jancis Robinson says: “Most of them are still ridiculously underpriced.” This Highly Recommended bottle (37.5cc) is one of them, great value at Karwig’s. Try it as an aperitif, with tapas, with sushi or (if not a purist!) mix it fifty fifty with 7 Up, both ice-cold, add ice and fresh mint leaves.

The Zuleta has a light straw colour with “delicate floral, almond, and yeasty aromas and flavour”. It is crisp, soft, and dry on the palate. They recommended that you serve it very well chilled. And a tip: store after opening, tightly corked and refrigerated it will keep for up to a week.

Monte Toro Selection Crianza, Toro (DO) 2007, 14.5%, €16.20 Karwig Wines

This Highly Recommended red is from Toro, an area in the north west of Spain that produces ripe full bodied reds. It is 100% Tempranillo, the grape known locally as Tinta de Toro. This Crianza has spent 12 months in barrel (fifty fifty US and French oak) and 24 months in bottle before release.

It was worth waiting for. Colour is a dark red with hues of purple. The nose speaks of fruits, echoes there too of toast and vanilla. It is full bodied, silky, intense and savoury, and Highly Recommended