Bodega Alvear

Established in 1729, Bodega Alvear is one of Spain's most noted and historic wine makers. Alvear Sherries are recognized as being among the world's best; favourably reviewed by the world's leading critics. Alvear owns 250 hectares of vineyards, of which 90% is planted with Pedro Ximenez. The bodega's capacity is 21 million liters, with more than 20,000 American oak barrels for wine aging. The Solera is a system of aging wines whereby older wines impart their influence to younger wines in the system. There are numerous stages of development. At each stage older wines are added to top up the barrels of younger wines. No more than 40% may be tran sferred in one year. The value, rarity and complexities increase with age and the number of stages the wine passes through in the Solera.

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Alvear's Amontillado Alvear's Amontillado is very genteel, with reserved, well-integrated honey, apricot, walnut and peppery scents. It has a smooth, rich texture and is medium sweet.

Alvear's Fino Alvear's Fino is from the hotter, inland Montilla district, not coastal Jerez. It offers intriguing aromas of Middle Eastern spices with pear fruit, hazelnut, almonds and cedar. Dry, spicy and warm, with a bitter edge, it has excellent length.