Making Sense of Sherry Styles
Fino, Amontillado, Oloroso, Palo Cortado—is there an easy way to make sense of the different styles? Yes!
First and foremost, think of Sherry styles as having two main style camps: Fino & Oloroso.
STYLES
- Fino Style: Fresh, zesty citrus and bready aromas and flavors with a crisp mouthfeel.
- Oloroso Style: Developing aromas and flavors of nuts and coffee, with a rich concentrated texture.
The next thing to know is how each Sherry is aged.
AGING
During the aging process, Fino Sherries are not exposed to oxygen. The technical term is called “biological aging,” and results from a thick, protective layer of yeasts called flor, which forms at the top of the aging Sherry. The layer of flor prevents oxygen from coming in contact with the Sherry, which in turn creates that fresh, zesty, citrusy profile.
These Sherries are exposed to oxygen during the aging process, called “oxidative aging,” which results in a style that includes developed aromas and flavors such as roasted nuts and coffee.
Some of the styles combine Fino & Oloroso characteristics, like Amontillado. For this style, biological aging is followed by oxidative aging. Here is a quick explanation of the process:
Here’s another visual to help make sense of Amontillado Sherry. Think of the style as somewhere in between the Fino and Oloroso styles:
FINO STYLE
AMONTILLADO STYLE
OLOROSO STYLE
Fino Style | Amontillado Style | Oloroso Style |
Fresh, zesty citrus character. | Nuts and coffee aromas and flavors will have an underlying zestiness from time in the Fino solera. | Tertiary aromas and flavors of nuts and coffee. |
FINO CAMP
Barrels (called butts) are partly-filled (allows oxygen on top of wine).A thick layer of flor forms on top of the wine, and the wine will be classified as a Fino. The flor acts as a protective layer against oxygen.
So that the flor can continue to thrive, when it comes time to fortify the wine, fortification is only up to 15 or 15.5% ABV.
If it is higher, the alcohol will kill off the flor, and the wine will lose its protective layer against oxygen.
Fresh, zesty citrus flavors result. But it doesn’t end there. While the wine itself is not in contact with oxygen, the layer of flor is. The flor feeds off of alcohol in the wine and oxygen at the top of the barrel, creating carbon dioxide and acetaldehyde, which adds Fino’s unique bready flavors (e.g., tangy rye bread).
OLOROSO CAMP
Barrels (called butts) are partly-filled (allows oxygen on top of wine).
The wine will be fortified to about 17% ABV so that flor will not develop (or will be killed off).
With exposure to oxygen, nutty, coffee, toffee aromas and flavors develop. With air exposure, the texture also becomes richer and more concentrated.
The Pedro Ximénez Sherry Curve Ball
So, what’s up with the “PX” style? PX stands for Pedro Ximénez—the grape variety used. While the grape variety for the other styles mentioned above is the Palomino grape, the Pedro Ximénez grape’s thin skins are well-suited to being sun-dried off of the vine or left on the vine for late harvesting. When grapes are dried out in the sun or overripe, they lose water concentration and therefore the sugars and flavors in the grapes are naturally super concentrated. Pedro Ximénez is used to make a very rare, syrupy, sweet wine. (Sometimes a bit of “PX” wine is used to sweeten the other styles.) Stay tuned for future blogs on other Sherry categories such as age-designated Sherries and sweetened Sherries. Like these style deep-dives? Let us know, and we will create more for other wine categories!Explore more
Related Posts
-
Finding the Hidden Rhône
by Joe Roberts A closer look at some of the more intriguing Villages added t...
-
Episode 26 - Andrew Jefford: Drinking with the Valkyries
In this episode, Catherine Bugué sits down with Andrew Jefford to have a deep...
-
Episode 25 - Steven Spurrier: A Life In Wine
In this episode, Peter Marks and Christian Oggenfuss chat with Steven about h...
-
Episode 24 - The Life and Wines of Hugh Johnson
In this episode, our very own Catherine Bugué interviews the world’s best sel...
-
Episode 23 - Oz Clarke on Wine
In this episode, our very own Catherine Bugué interviews the inimitable Oz Cl...
-
Episode 22 - Hugh Johnson - The Story of a Wine Giant
IN EPISODE 22, IN THIS EPISODE, WE CATCH UP WITH WINE LEGEND, HUGH JOHNSON. ...
-
Episode 21 - Steven Spurrier - The Story of Bride Valley Sparkling Wine
IN EPISODE 21, WE SIT DOWN WITH ONE OF THE WINE INDUSTRY’S MOST STORIED AND...
-
Episode 20 - Wine and War - The Story of Lebanon
In Episode 20, we sit down with Michael Karam, the author of Wines of Lebanon...
-
Episode 19 - The Story of Franciacorta
In Episode 19, we sit down with Giammario Villa, Master Taster, Sommelier, an...
-
Episode 18 - Peter Mondavi Jr. - Stories of a Dynasty
In Episode 18, we sit down with Peter Mondavi, Jr. of Charles Krug Winery, In...
-
Episode 17 - Rodrigo Soto - Journey to Biodynamics
In Episode 17, we sit down with winemaker Rodrigo Soto, In this episode, Chri...
-
Episode 16 - Vanessa Conlin - Journey to MW
In Episode 16, we sit down with Vanessa Conlin, MW. A note from Jonathan Cris...
-
Episode 15 - Paul Mabray - Wine Industry's Digital Godfather
In Episode 15, we sit down with Paul Mabray, the digital godfather to the win...
-
Episode 14 - Dr. Paulo Lopes - Myths and Truths of Cork
In Episode 14, we sit down with Dr. Paulo Lopes, a Portugues scientist and on...
-
Episode 13 - Dan Dawson, Recovering Wine Shop Owner
In episode 13 of our ongoing podcast series, The Stories Behind Wine we sp...
-
Episode 12 - Lisa Strid, Winemaker
In episode 12 of our ongoing podcast series, The Stories Behind Wine we speak...
-
Episode 11 - Cathy Corison, Winemaker
In episode 11 of our ongoing podcast series, The Stories Behind Wine we speak...
-
Episode 10 - Stu Smith, Winemaker
In Episode 10 of our ongoing podcast series, The Stories Behind Wine, we spea...
-
Episode 9 - Dan Petroski, Winemaker
In Episode 9 of our ongoing podcast series, The Stories Behind Wine, we speak...
-
Episode 8 - Mary Margaret McCamic MW
In Episode 8 of our ongoing podcast series, The Stories Behind Wine, we speak...
-
Episode 7 - Angela Maculan
In Episode 7 of our ongoing podcast series, The Stories Behind Wine, we speak...
-
Episode 6 - Master of Wine vs Master Sommelier
In Episode 6 of our ongoing podcast series, The Stories Behind Wine, we explo...
-
Episode 5 - Rob McMillan's Story
In Episode 5 of our ongoing podcast series, The Stories Behind Wine, we speak...
-
Episode 4 - Steve Matthiasson's Story
In Episode 4 of our ongoing podcast series, The Stories Behind Wine, we speak...
-
Episode 3 - Interview with Ian Harris
On today’s show, I sit down with I’m in, in Michael Harris is my middle name...
-
Episode 2 - Interview with Joel Aiken
In Episode 2 of the Stories Behind Wine we sit down with renowned vintner and...
-
Episode 1 - Interview with Richard Mendelson
Interview with Richard Mendelson In Episode 1 we interview Richard Mendelson ...
-
The Evolution of Wine Labels, and What We Can Learn From Them
While over 80% of consumers admit to choosing wine by its label, they tend to...
-
The Prison Wine Estate of Gorgona
Arrival at Gorgona is similar to any other cozy Mediterranean island apart f...
-
ENHANCING WINE SELECTION SKILLS WITH NAPA VALLEY WINE ACADEMY’S WSET LEVEL 2 AWARD IN WINE
Diving into Napa Valley Wine Academy’s WSET 2 Award in Wines marks the begi...
-
Is WSET Level 2 a Sommelier or a pathway to becoming a Sommelier?
What is a Sommelier? Exploring the Foundations with Napa Valley Wine Academy ...
-
Exploring Wine Varieties Through WSET Levels
Jumping into WSET levels is like going on an adventure through a wine world t...
-
Understanding What Does WSET Stand For (Wine & Spirit Education Trust)
When asking “What does WSET stand for?”, the answer unfolds in two significan...
-
Navigating Online WSET Level 1 and Online WSET Level 2 Exams: A Guide to Success
The Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) offers globally recognized quali...
-
Embarking on a Beverage Journey: Napa Valley Wine Academy's WSET Level 1 Courses
In the vast and vibrant world of beverages, starting your educational journey...
-
Benefits of Achieving Napa Valley Wine Academy WSET 4 Certification
Why you should get your Napa Valley Wine Academy WSET 4 Diploma Global Recog...
-
WSET Levels Explained: Which Course is Right for You?
Understanding the WSET Landscape The Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET)...
-
Become an Expert in Napa Valley Wines — Crafting a Winning Study Strategy In WSET Courses
The journey through the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) program offe...
-
Understanding Sweetness in Wine: A Guide to International Standards and WSET Approaches
Wine sweetness significantly influences the tasting experience, shaping a win...
-
Exploring the World of Wine: The Unmatched Value of Educational Trips for WSET Studies
Educational wine trips provide an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself...
-
Navigating the World of Wine: The Essential Role of Maps in WSET Studies
In the complex world of wine studies, maps are not just tools for navigation;...
-
Discovering the Characteristics of Common Grape Varieties Through WSET Levels
The Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) program offers an enlighten...
-
Mastery of the WSET Tasting Exams: Combining Sensory Acumen with Intellectual Rigor
Mastery of the WSET Tasting Exams: Combining Sensory Acumen with Intellectual...
-
Cultivating Excellence in the WSET Level 4 Diploma in Wine: Key Traits for Student Success
WSET Level 4 Diploma with Napa Valley Wine Academy Embarking on the WSET Lev...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 39 - Laura Deyermond, Newton Vineyards
My guest today is Laura Deyermond, Head of Viticulture for Newton Vineyards ...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 38 - Elizabeth Vianna, Winemaker, Chimney Rock
Today I am honored to introduce you to Elizabeth Vianna, Winemaker and GM of...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 37 - Brittany Merritt & Kristi Gardner, SGWS Talent Acquisition Team
We’ve finally come to the third and final episode in our series featuring th...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 36 - Jean Cox, Instructor
One of the most frequently asked questions I get is how to become a wine edu...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 35 - Mike Cashion & Chip Turrisi, SGWS Talent Acquisition Team
I’m excited to bring you part 2 of our 3-part series featuring the talent ac...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 34 - Jodie Battles, Beverage Director, JK Food Group
Today you’ll meet Jodie Battles, Managing Partner & Beverage Director f...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 33 - Cindy Peck, Director of Career Strategy, Drucker School of Management
We are all about helping you increase your odds of finding the wine job of y...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 32 - Vince Pierce - Sr. Dir. of Talent Acquisition with SGWS
I’m so glad you’re joining me today. I was lucky enough to connect with the...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 31 - Allison Day - Founder & Creative Director, Good Things Done Right
In this episode you will meet my fantastic guest, Allison Day, who started...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 30 - Amber Mihna - Staglin Family Vineyard Director of Global Sales
Have you ever wondered what’s it like to work for one of the most prestigio...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 29 - Zak Miller and TJ Evans - The Winemaking Team at Domaine Carneros
My very special guests today are both winemakers at the famed Domaine Carner...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 28 - Clare Tooley- VP, Guest Services, Boisset Collection
Every guest we’ve showcased on the show has had an interesting wine journey ...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 27 - ParisWineGirl, Consultant, Entrepreneur - Emily Lester
When you think of a career in the wine industry do you find yourself dreamin...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 26 - Cuvee Collective - Andrew Allison
One of the things I love most about the wine industry is that it is steeped ...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 25 - Wine Unify - Alicia Towns Franken
Today I’m honored to introduce you to Alicia Towns Franken, a veteran of the...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 24 - Italian Wine Professional certification program & Co-founder of ItalianWineCentral.com - Geralyn Brostrom
Geralyn Brostrom is an instructor in the Wine MBA program at the Wine Busin...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 23 - Wine Writer - Jonathan Cristaldi
If you have ever thought about sharing your passion for wine by writing ab...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 22 - Wine Industry Consultant - Dale Stratton
My guest today is Dale Stratton. Dale has spent the better part of 40 years...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 21 - Napa Valley Wine Academy - Catherine Bugue
My guest today is Catherine Bugue, co-founder and VP of Education at Napa Va...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 20 - Blends & Bubbly - DeLauren Everett
In this episode you are going to meet my good friend, and wine entrepreneu...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 19 - Somm Foundation - Thomas Price & Ashley Hausman
Join us and meet Master Sommelier Thomas Price and Master of Wine Ashley Hau...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 18 - Wine Access - Vanessa Conlin
In this episode you’ll meet Mater of Wine, Vanessa Conlin. Vanessa is the C...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 17 - Silver Oak and Twomey Cellars - Nate Weiss
Have you ever pictured yourself coming home at the end of your work day wit...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 16 - Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits - Bailey Gins
In this episode we you’ll meet Bailey Gins from SGWS. She started off in a s...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 15 - Wine, Beer & Spirits - Gary Schneidkraut
If you’re looking for resources to help you find a job in the wine industr...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 14- African American Vintners - Phil Long
In this episode, I was honored to bring you my up close and personal inter...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 13- Vitro Ad Agency - Chrissy Frentz
Meet Chrissy Frentz, Program Director for Vitro Ad Agency. Chrissy oversees ...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 12 - Delicato Family Wines - Paul Bourget
My guest today is Paul Bourget, VP of Consumer Insights for Delicato Famil...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 11 - WineJobs.com - Eric Jorgensen
If you are searching for a wine industry job on one of those big job search ...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 10 - Hess Perssons Estate - Beth McCauly
In today’s episode, you’ll meet, Beth McCauley, a Division Manager for The ...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 9 - Heidelberg Distributing - Pat O'Sullivan
Have you ever thought about becoming a wine sales rep or wondered what it wo...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 8 - Vine Pair - Cat Wolinski
In this episode I’ll talk to Cat Wolinski, Senior Editor at VinePair, the la...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 7 - Wente Vineyards - Aly Wente
Founded in 1883, Wente Vineyards is located in Livermore California and is...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 6 - One Hope Wines - Tiffany Wojtkiewicz
You’ve probably heard about home-based wine sales, but have you ever wondered...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 5 - Michael Cerio - Distinguished Vineyards
In this Episode, Karen Wetzel speaks with Michael Cerio, VP of Operations fo...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 4 - Peter Marks Master of Wine
IN THIS EPISODE OF WINE, WORK & PASSION, WE’LL TALK TO PETER MARKS, MAST...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 3 - Curtis Mann - Albertsons
Book a career coaching session with Karen: https://go.oncehub.com/KarenWetzel...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 2 - Morgan Bailey - Quintessa Winery
Welcome to the Wine, Work & Passion Podcast where our mission is to hel...
-
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 1 - The Launch - Wine, Work & Passion
Welcome to the Wine, Work & Passion Podcast where our mission is to help...
Director of Education – WSET-Certified, D.W.S., IWP
Catherine Bugue
Catherine is co-owner and Vice President of Education at the Napa Valley Wine Academy, overseeing WSET course delivery, instructors, and the creation of new courses.
Catherine earned her Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Diploma in 2010 and numerous other post-nominals and instructs advanced-level courses such as the WSET Level 3 and Diploma units.
Loving to write as much as teaching, Catherine sits on the Napa Valley Vintners and St Helena Star Tasting Panel and is a wine columnist for the Napa Valley Register.
Catherine previously managed international wine accounts for Balzac Communications & Marketing, where she promoted the region and wines of Navarra, Rueda, Collio, Franciacorta, Chianti Classico, and more. She lives with her husband, François, in Napa Valley, where he is in wine production.