Bodegas Barbadillo, ÁS de Mirabrás Sumato Manzanilla en rama, Jerez, Andalucia, Spain 2020

A fabulous 'Manzanilla en rama de añada' (from a single vintage), of which only 5,000 bottles were produced with fruit hailing from old Palomino vines. Aged statically (i.e. not transferred sequentially across a solera system), the different 'botas' (casks) are blended to create the final wine - the blending process is alluded to in the wine's name as the sum ('sumatorio') of the different casks, each with its own character and complexity. The result is a Manzanilla of remarkable purity and focus, with a moreish dense salinity lined with apple peel - both coating a fleshy core of blanched almonds. Subtle nuances of fennel top, white pepper and chamomile. A beautiful, fresh take on Manzanilla.