Palo Cortado
50cl * 20% ABV * Jerez, Spain
Palo Cortado is an anomaly in Sherry terms: originally destined as a Fino, unique ambient conditions mean that certain barrels are set apart for oxidative ageing. The end result combines the richness of Oloroso with the crisp qualities of Amontillado. Tangy and smoky, nutty and delicate, honeyed but never sweet - this is one of the classiest fortified wines available to buy and received an 18/20 points from jancisrobinson.com
The name means 'cut stick,' in reference to the mark made on the cask when this style of wine is recognized. Since the wine was originally destined to be a Fino or Amontillado, it will initially have had a single stroke marked on the cask. When the cellar master realises that the wine is becoming a Palo Cortado, he draws a cross (or cut) through the initial stroke (or stick), resulting in a crossed stroke or 'cut stick' (/). At this time the wine will be fortified to about 20% abv, to prevent spoilage from contact with the air and ageing continued separately from its original solera. So, the sherry in your bottle is on average 30 years old.
"Complex nose of chicory, pistachio and raisined butterscotch. Nutty palate with soya finish." "Rich, complex drinking with layers of honey, coffee, hazelnuts. Incredible balance." - Tasting notes from the International Wine Challenge in 2013 & 2015, where this won Gold.
This Palo Cortado is the perfect companion to cured hard cheeses such as Manchego or Parmesan and also extra matured cheddar and gruyere.
96 Points (100), Sarah Jane Evans MW, Decanter Magazine: 'Everything you could possibly want in a Palo Cortado, a wine evenly poised between Amontillado and Oloroso. Toasted and buttery, with walnut notes on the nose leading into a resoundingly bold palate of honey, bitter caramel and a lift of saltiness. The power is carefully controlled through to an elegant finish.'
18 Points (20), Ferran Centelles, jancisrobinson.com: 'This is so marked by age and wood that it almost seems like an old brandy, but is extremely sharp and deep. It has toast and caramel to a maximum aromatic concentration and depth. A saline profile with a touch of seaweed. Classy! Great! It is elegance without being pungent. Great expressiveness and integration of alcohol. A finish with roasted nut, orange peel and candied-fruit flavours.'
Drinking Window 2007-2050