Fino

Fino is a type of sherry, a fortified wine made from white grapes grown near the town of Jerez de la Frontera in Andalusia, Spain. It is the driest and palest of the traditional varieties of sherry.

Production

Fino is made from the Palomino grape, which is the primary grape used in the production of sherry. The wine undergoes a process of fortification, where brandy is added to increase its alcohol content. This process helps to preserve the wine and gives it its distinctive flavor.

The wine is aged under a layer of flor, a type of yeast that forms on the surface of the wine and protects it from oxidation. This aging process takes place in a system of barrels known as a solera, where younger wines are blended with older wines to ensure consistency in flavor and quality.

Characteristics

Fino sherry is known for its light, dry taste and pale color. It typically has an alcohol content of around 15-17%. The presence of flor yeast gives it a unique flavor profile, often described as nutty with hints of almond and a slightly salty finish.

Serving

Fino is traditionally served chilled, often as an aperitif. It pairs well with a variety of foods, including tapas, seafood, and olives. Due to its delicate nature, it is best consumed soon after opening, as it can lose its flavor and freshness quickly.

Related Varieties

Other types of sherry include Manzanilla, which is similar to Fino but produced in the coastal town of Sanlúcar de Barrameda, and Amontillado, which starts as a Fino but undergoes additional aging and oxidation, resulting in a darker, richer wine.

See Also

• Sherry
• Fortified wine
• Palomino (grape)
• Solera