Drinking sherry is more than just sipping a fortified wine; it’s an experience that brings out unique flavors and aromas shaped by centuries of tradition. Whether you’re a novice or someone curious about this versatile drink, learning how to properly enjoy sherry will enhance your appreciation of its complexity. This guide will walk you through the essentials, from preparation to tasting, ensuring you get the most out of every glass.
What You’ll Need
- A bottle of sherry (choose a style based on your taste preference: Fino, Manzanilla, Amontillado, Oloroso, or Cream)
- Appropriate glassware (ideally a copita or a small white wine glass)
- Optional: a small plate of tapas or light snacks
- Refrigerator or cool storage for chilling certain styles
Step-by-Step
- Choose the right sherry style. Sherry comes in various styles that range from dry to sweet. Fino and Manzanilla are light, dry, and best served chilled. Amontillado and Oloroso are richer and nuttier, suited to room temperature. Cream sherry is sweet and often enjoyed as a dessert wine.
- Chill or store your sherry properly. Store unopened bottles of sherry in a cool, dark place. Once opened, dry styles like Fino and Manzanilla should be refrigerated and consumed within a few days. Richer or sweeter styles can last a bit longer when sealed and refrigerated.
- Select the correct glass. Use a copita glass if available; it’s tulip-shaped to concentrate aromas. A small white wine glass also works well. Avoid large glasses that dissipate the aromas too quickly.
- Pour a modest amount. Pour about 2 to 3 ounces (60-90 ml) per serving. Sherry is typically enjoyed in smaller quantities because of its intensity.
- Observe the color and clarity. Hold the glass up to the light to appreciate the color, which gives clues about the sherry style and age. Fino is pale straw, Amontillado is amber, and Oloroso is darker mahogany.
- Swirl gently and smell. Swirl the glass lightly to release aromas. Bring the glass to your nose and inhale deeply to detect the distinctive notes — from yeasty, almond, and saline in dry sherries to caramel, dried fruit, and nuts in richer types.
- Take a small sip. Let the sherry coat your palate. Notice the texture, sweetness, acidity, and finish. Dry sherries tend to be crisp and fresh, while aged ones are complex and smooth.
- Pair with appropriate food. Sherry pairs beautifully with a variety of foods. Fino and Manzanilla complement seafood and salty snacks, Amontillado works well with tapas and cured meats, Oloroso matches game and strong cheeses, and Cream sherry suits desserts.
- Enjoy slowly and savor. Sherry is meant to be sipped and appreciated slowly. Take your time to enjoy the evolving flavors with each sip.
- Store leftover sherry properly. Reseal the bottle tightly and refrigerate dry sherries, consuming them within a few days. Sweeter styles can last longer but should still be stored in a cool place.
Common Mistakes
- Serving sherry too warm or too cold. Serving dry sherries like Fino at room temperature can make them taste flat, while serving heavier sherries too cold dulls their complexity.
- Using the wrong glassware. Large, wide glasses dissipate aromas, reducing the sensory experience.
- Pouring too much at once. Sherry is intense; overpouring can overwhelm the palate.
- Ignoring food pairing. Sherry’s flavors shine when paired with complementary foods; drinking it alone can sometimes mask its best qualities.
- Not refrigerating opened dry sherry. This leads to rapid oxidation and loss of flavor.
Tips
- Experiment with different styles. Try Fino, Amontillado, Oloroso, and Cream to find what suits your palate.
- Use a copita glass if possible. Its shape enhances aroma concentration and tasting experience.
- Serve dry sherries chilled between 45-55°F (7-13°C). Heavier styles are better at slightly warmer temperatures around 60-65°F (15-18°C).
- Pair sherry with tapas or small bites. Classic pairings include olives, almonds, Iberico ham, Manchego cheese, and seafood.
- Take small sips and let the sherry linger. This helps you appreciate the complexity and finish.
- Store opened bottles upright in the fridge. This minimizes oxidation and helps preserve freshness.
Troubleshooting
Sherry tastes flat or dull: This usually means it’s been served too warm or has been open too long. Chill dry sherries properly and consume quickly after opening.
Sherry tastes overly sharp or vinegary: This can indicate the sherry is oxidized or spoiled. Check the smell; if it has an unpleasant sour or acetone aroma, discard it.
Sherry lacks aroma or complexity: Try swirling the glass more gently to release aromas. Also, ensure you’re using appropriate glassware and serving temperature.
Sherry feels too sweet or unbalanced: You may have chosen a style that doesn’t match your preference. Try a drier style like Fino or Amontillado if you want less sweetness.
Pairings don’t complement the sherry: Adjust your food selection. For example, avoid heavy or spicy foods with delicate Fino; instead, choose light seafood or nuts.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the best way to store opened sherry?
- Keep opened dry sherries refrigerated and sealed tightly; consume within 3-5 days. Sweeter sherries can last longer but also benefit from refrigeration.
- Can I drink sherry straight or only with food?
- Sherry can be enjoyed both ways. While it pairs excellently with food, many appreciate sipping it on its own to savor its flavors.
- What glass should I use for sherry?
- A copita or small white wine glass is ideal to concentrate the aromas and deliver a balanced tasting experience.
- Is sherry served chilled or at room temperature?
- Dry sherries are best served chilled (45-55°F), while richer, aged styles can be served slightly cooler than room temperature (60-65°F).
- How do different sherry styles taste?
- Fino and Manzanilla are light and dry with nutty, saline notes. Amontillado is nuttier and richer. Oloroso is fuller-bodied and darker with caramel flavors. Cream is sweet and smooth.
- Can I mix sherry in cocktails?
- Yes, sherry is versatile in cocktails, especially dry styles like Fino or Amontillado, which add complexity without overpowering other ingredients.
By following these steps and tips, you’ll develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for sherry, transforming each glass into a delightful tasting journey. Whether you’re relaxing alone or entertaining guests, drinking sherry properly elevates the experience and reveals the true character of this time-honored wine.
Remember, the best way to learn is to taste different styles and pairings, so don’t hesitate to explore and find what suits your palate best.
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