For James Robertson a glass or two of Sherry has long been one of Christmas’s best-kept secrets, quietly versatile and endlessly food-friendly.
Not only is Sherry a personal favourite for me Sherry deserves to be enjoyed because it offers a rare combination of tradition, versatility, and flavour complexity that few wines can match.
Made in a singular corner of southern Spain using centuries-old methods, there is a wide range of styles from bracingly dry and saline to deep, nutty and warming. Sherry has an amazing ability to shine where many wines struggle and can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a wide variety of food.
First is the Fernando de Castilla Classic Manzanilla, the lighter of the four Sherries. This is a wine that feels like a breath of sea air amid the indulgence of Christmas. It is bone dry, with a crisp salty tang with notes of green apple and citrus. This should be served well chilled, it is the perfect aperitif. Ideal with olives, seafood, or smoked fish. £16.64 per bottle – de Burgh Wines
Moving into greater depth, is the Barbadillo Criadera Amontillado En Rama. This is a Sherry that has balance, elegance and a savoury. Unfiltered and full of character, it balances notes of toasted almonds, dried herbs and subtle citrus with a silky, nut-driven palate. A Sherry that pairs well with any Christmas starter like smoked salmon, pâté or mushroom bruschetta. £18.95 per bottle – Winedriect.co.uk
The Barbadillo Criadera Palo Cortado En Rama a Sherry that has the body and finesse to be enjoyed with the main course on Christmas Day, in fact it also deserves to be served lightly chilled in a white wine glass. This Sherry has wonderful aromatic rich layers of roasted nuts, caramel, spice and a touch of saltiness on the finish. Perfect with roast turkey, duck, glazed ham or rich shellfish. £18.95 per bottle – The Wine Society
Finally as the Christmas meal comes to the final hurdle this Sherry takes centre stage, Barbadillo Criadera Oloroso En Rama. Full-bodied, dry and rich with flavours of dark chocolate, coffee, dried fruit and baked apples. This is a Sherry for slow sipping by the fire, superb with blue cheese, Christmas cake or dark chocolate. The perfect end to a perfect day. £18.95 per bottle – The Wine Library
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