Barbadillo Pastora Manzanilla Pasada

The back label claims that ‘Pastora’ was the first manzanilla ever bottled, way back in 1827. This is a pasada version, longer aged with diminished flor protection and more oxidative notes. It was bottled without filtration. It wafts a classic, intense nose of sultana raisin, sourdough, peanut shell and licorice – very exotic and alluring. It is medium-full bodied, just off dry warm and rich. Love the sense of fruit here, so rare in sherry. This is outstanding. Chill lightly. Tasted Sept 2021. Score – 95. (David Lawrason, winealign.com)