Tasting: Biological and Oxidative Aging Wines + Pairing

Exploring the captivating world of biological and oxidative aging wines can be a truly enlightening experience. Through a guided tasting, one can uncover the unique characteristics of Sherry and Montilla-Moriles – from the delicate flavors of fino and manzanilla to the rich complexity of oloroso varieties. Complemented by carefully curated tapas, this tasting promises to unveil the profound impact of aging on the flavor profile of these remarkable wines. Prepare to embark on a sensory journey that delves into the intricate nuances of each wine.

Key Points

• A one-hour private tasting experience focusing on biologically and oxidatively aged wines from Sherry and Montilla-Moriles regions, accompanied by complementary tapas.

• The tasting features a selection of fino, manzanilla, and oloroso sherries, highlighting the impact of aging methods on flavor profiles.

• Biologically aged wines, such as finos and manzanillas, exhibit delicate, nutty flavors and a crisp mouthfeel, while oxidatively aged olorosos showcase rich, caramelized notes.

• Tapas are carefully paired to enhance and complement the flavors of the wines, providing a harmonious sensory experience.

• The tasting is led by an English or Spanish-fluent guide, who provides insights into the winemaking process and the influence of aging on the wines’ aroma, texture, and taste.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Tasting Experience

Visitors can embark on a tasting experience that explores the nuances of biological and oxidative aging wines from the Denominations of Origin Sherry and Montilla-Moriles.

Lasting one hour, the tasting offers an opportunity to savor four wines and complementary tapas. Guests will learn about the winemaking process and how barrel aging under flor or exposure to oxygen influences flavor and aroma.

The experience takes place in a private tasting room, making it ideal for groups seeking to deepen their understanding of Andalusian wines. An English or Spanish-speaking instructor guides participants through the sensory and educational components.

Wines and Pairing

Participants will savor a selection of four wines from the Denominations of Origin Sherry and Montilla-Moriles, which include examples of both biologically aged (finos, manzanillas) and oxidatively aged (olorosos) varieties.

The wines will be paired with a selection of tapas designed to complement and highlight the flavors. The price may vary depending on the specific wine selection.

This pairing experience allows participants to discover how barrel aging under flor (biological) or in contact with oxygen (oxidative) influences the wines’ flavor and aroma profiles.

The Impact of Aging on Flavor Profile

As participants explore the diverse wines, they’ll discover how the aging process significantly shapes the flavor profiles.

Biological aging, where the delicate flor yeast blanket imparts a light, tangy character, yields crisp, dry fino and manzanilla sherries.

In contrast, oxidative aging exposes the wine to oxygen, resulting in:

• Nutty, caramelized notes in rich, velvety oloroso sherries

• Concentrated, complex flavors in the Montilla-Moriles wines

• Subtle wood influences from the different barrel types used

These aging methods profoundly impact the aromas, textures, and overall taste experience, providing a fascinating educational journey for wine enthusiasts.

Exploring Biological Aging: Finos and Manzanillas

The tasting experience now shifts its focus to exploring the distinctive characteristics of finos and manzanillas – the quintessential examples of biologically aged wines.

These pale, dry sherries are fermented with a layer of protective yeast called flor, which imparts delicate, nutty flavors and a crisp, refreshing mouthfeel.

Participants will explore the impact of this unique aging process, comparing the delicate aromas and flavors of these biologically aged wines.

Through this exploration, guests will gain a deeper appreciation for the subtle complexities that make finos and manzanillas such treasured expressions of the Sherry and Montilla-Moriles regions.

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Discovering Oxidative Aging: Olorosos

After exploring the delicate nuances of biologically aged finos and manzanillas, the tasting experience now shifts its focus to the bold and captivating world of olorosos.

These fortified wines undergo a remarkable transformation through oxidative aging.

Olorosos are characterized by:

• A deep amber color that reflects their extended time in the barrel.

• Rich, complex flavors like toasted nuts, dried fruits, and hints of caramel.

• A velvety, almost syrupy texture that coats the palate.

The impact of oxidation on the wine’s profile creates a striking contrast to the lighter, fresher styles previously tasted.

Solera Aging and Flor Impact

While olorosos captivate the senses with their bold oxidative character, the tasting experience also delves into the intricate process of solera aging and the influential role of flor.

Solera aging allows for a gradual blending of wines from different vintages, creating complex and harmonious flavors. The living yeast colony, known as flor, plays a crucial part in biological aging. It forms a protective layer over the wine, imparting distinctive aromas and flavors.

Guests will explore how these fascinating elements shape the unique profiles of Sherry and Montilla-Moriles wines, expanding their appreciation for the winemaking traditions of Andalusia.

Barrel Types and Their Influence

Barrels play a crucial role in shaping the flavor and aroma profiles of Sherry and Montilla-Moriles wines.

Different barrel types impart distinct characteristics:

American oak barrels lend notes of vanilla, coconut, and dill, while French oak barrels contribute more subtle flavors of spice and fruit.

• American oak barrels lend notes of vanilla, coconut, and dill, while French oak barrels contribute more subtle flavors of spice and fruit.

• The size of the barrel also matters, with smaller barrels allowing for more intense oak influence.

• The age of the barrels, from new to well-used, further modifies the intensity and type of oak impact on the wine.

These barrel nuances interact with the biological and oxidative aging processes, creating the complex flavor profiles of these distinctive Andalusian wines.

Sensory and Educational Wine Tasting

What better way to truly appreciate the nuances of Sherry and Montilla-Moriles wines than through a sensory and educational tasting experience?

This immersive 1-hour session allows you to savor 4 examples of biologically and oxidatively aged wines. An expert guide will lead you through the winemaking process, explaining how barrel aging impacts flavor and aroma.

Taste and compare the distinct profiles of fino, manzanilla, and oloroso wines, paired with tapas. This interactive experience in a private tasting room is perfect for groups seeking to deepen their understanding of these iconic Andalusian wines.

FAQ

Is There a Dress Code for the Tasting?

There is no specific dress code for the wine tasting. Participants can wear casual and comfortable clothing. The focus is on the tasting experience, so attire is not a priority.

Can We Substitute the Tapas With Dietary Restrictions?

Yes, the tapas can be substituted to accommodate dietary restrictions. The hosts are happy to work with guests to ensure the food pairings meet their needs, providing an enjoyable and inclusive tasting experience.

Is the Tasting Location Wheelchair Accessible?

The tasting experience is wheelchair accessible, as it takes place in a private tasting room. This makes it an ideal option for groups looking to deepen their understanding of Andalusian wines in an inclusive environment.

Do We Need to Bring Our Own Wine Glasses?

No, you don’t need to bring your own wine glasses. The tasting experience is held in a private room and all necessary glassware will be provided for the wine sampling.

What Happens if We Need to Cancel Last Minute?

If you need to cancel last minute, you can get a full refund by cancelling up to 24 hours in advance. There’s free cancellation, so you won’t lose your money if your plans change.

Sum Up

This guided tasting offers a captivating exploration of the complex world of biologically and oxidatively aged wines. Participants will explore the nuanced flavors and intricate aging processes that define Sherry and Montilla-Moriles, savoring a selection of wines complemented by carefully curated tapas. Through this intimate experience, attendees will gain a deeper appreciation for the profound impact of aging on a wine’s profile.

You can check if your dates are available here: