Bodegas Valdespino 'Contrabandista' Medium Dry Amontillado, Jerez-Xeres-Sherry DO
Item Number: 7918
UPC: 8-412449103198
Country: Spain
Region: Andalucia
Sub Region: Cadiz
Appellation/AVA: Jerez-Xeres-Sherry DO
Estate Grown Wine: Yes
Grape(s): 94% Palomino Fino / 6% Pedro Ximénez
Type: Wine - Sherry, Madeira & Port
Bottle Size: 750 ml
Pack: 6
Closure: T Top
Alc by Vol(%): 18
Residual Sugar(g/L): 35 g/L
Total Acidity: 4.04
Soil Type: Albariza or a white chalky soil
Type of Aging: Biological and oxidative
Average Age: 15 years
Production: Contrabandista is made from 'Tio Diego' Amontillado that is blended with Pedro Ximénez. The Palomino Fino grapes are from the Macharnudo Alto vineyard with vines in excess of 25 years old. The wine ferments naturally in very old oak barrels. It remains in this sobretabla for 1 year fermenting to about 12% alcohol and forming the flor. It then spends 8 years aging under flor and an additional 8 years aging oxidative. A small amount of Pedro Ximénez is then added to give the juice just a bit of sweetness and roundness to the palate.
Tasting Notes: Contrabandista Dry Amontillado has a nose of dates and raisins, with butterscotch and toffee, and roasted hazelnut aromas. It is smooth and persistent on the palate with a delicate, rich finish that is slightly bittersweet. The elegant amontillado character comes through at the end of the palate. Drink as an aperitif or try with soups, pates and foie gras. It is delicious with creamy cheeses such as Camembert and brie. Serve at cellar temperature or slightly chilled.