Tío Pepe

Tío Pepe

Tío Pepe bottle

Tío Pepe is a renowned brand of sherry produced by the González Byass winery in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain. Known for its distinctive dry taste, Tío Pepe is a fino sherry, which is a type of pale and dry fortified wine. The brand has become synonymous with quality sherry and is recognized worldwide.

History

The origins of Tío Pepe date back to 1835 when Manuel María González Angel founded the González Byass winery. The name "Tío Pepe" was inspired by Manuel's uncle, José Ángel, who was affectionately called "Tío Pepe" (Uncle Pepe). José Ángel was instrumental in teaching Manuel the art of sherry making, and the brand was named in his honor.

Production

Tío Pepe is produced using the traditional solera system, a method of aging sherry that involves blending wines of different ages. This process ensures consistency and quality in the final product. The sherry is made from the Palomino grape, which is grown in the chalky soils of the Jerez region. The wine is aged under a layer of flor, a type of yeast that gives fino sherry its characteristic dry and nutty flavor.

Characteristics

Tío Pepe is known for its pale golden color and crisp, dry taste. It has a distinctive aroma of almonds and green apples, with a hint of yeast from the flor. The flavor is fresh and tangy, making it an ideal aperitif. It is best served chilled and pairs well with a variety of foods, including tapas, seafood, and Spanish cured meats.

Cultural Significance

Tío Pepe sign in Madrid

Tío Pepe has become an iconic symbol of Spanish culture and tradition. The brand's logo, featuring a bottle of sherry wearing a red jacket and a wide-brimmed hat, is instantly recognizable. One of the most famous advertisements for Tío Pepe is the neon sign that once stood in Puerta del Sol, Madrid. This sign became a cultural landmark and was a popular meeting point for locals and tourists alike.

The World's Largest Weather Vane

The world's largest weather vane

In 1997, González Byass installed the world's largest functioning weather vane on top of their bodega in Jerez. The weather vane, shaped like a Tío Pepe bottle, stands as a testament to the brand's enduring legacy and its connection to the region's heritage.

Related Pages

• Sherry
• González Byass
• Jerez de la Frontera
• Solera
• Palomino (grape)