In Detail
Palomino Fino is a Spanish white grape variety, most famously used in the production of Sherry from Jerez. Originating in Andalusia, Spain, it flourishes in the region's chalky albariza soils. The grape's thin skin and high yields result in a neutral, low-acid base wine, making it exceptionally well-suited for both biological aging under flor and oxidative aging in fortified wines. Young Palomino Fino wines exhibit subtle aromas of apple, lemon peel, and almond, with faint floral hints. Under flor, the wines develop complex notes of bread dough, yeast, and saline minerality. Oxidative aging contributes flavors of toasted nuts, caramel, and dried fruit. Its low acidity and minimal tannin mean that winemaking techniques like fortification and aging are crucial for adding body and complexity. Palomino Fino pairs beautifully with salty tapas, Iberian ham, fried fish, fresh seafood, olives, and paella.