Manzanilla is a variety of finosherry made around the port of Sanlúcar de Barrameda, in the province of Cádiz, Andalusia, and is produced under the SpanishDenominación de Origen Protegida of Manzanilla-Sanlúcar de Barrameda DOP. In Spanish, chamomileinfusion is called "manzanilla", and thus this wine gets the name because the wine's flavour is said to be reminiscent of such infusion. The sherry is manufactured using the same methods as a fino and results in a very pale, dry wine. It is often described as having a salty flavour, believed to develop from its being manufactured on the sea estuary of the Guadalquivir river. Sanlúcar de Barrameda's cool temperatures and high humidity contribute to a higher yield of floryeast than in Jerez or El Puerto de Santa María. The thicker cap of flor better protects the wine from contact with the air, resulting in a fresher, more delicate flavour than other varieties of fino. It is typically aged for five years in a solera, but some types may be aged longer.
Special types of Manzanilla
Manzanilla Pasada is a Manzanilla aged longer than usual, so that its veil of flor begins to fade, though not long enough to become an Amontillado.
Manzanilla Amontillada is similar to a Manzanilla pasada but in some cases aged as long as 12 years, taking on more of the qualities of an Amontillado.
Manzanilla Olorosa is a rich form of Manzanilla that takes on the quality of Oloroso through extended aging, sometimes as much as 30 years.
On 12 April 2012, the rules applicable to the sweet and fortified Denominations of Origen Montilla-Moriles and Jerez-Xérès-Sherry were changed. The classification by sweetness is:
Manzanilla is best served chilled at 7–10°C. In Spain it is often served with olives, almonds, or other tapas such as Jamón serrano or seafood. It is also popular in the cocktailRebujito.
Storing
Like fino, manzanilla is a delicate form of sherry and should be drunk within a year of bottling. Once opened it will immediately begin to deteriorate and should be drunk in one sitting for the best results. If necessary it can be stored, corked and refrigerated, for up to one week after opening.
