The Palomino grape, named after a famous 13th-century knight, is a white grape variety primarily grown in the Jerez region of Spain. It is most well known for its integral contribution to the production of Sherry, a renowned fortified wine. This grape is favoured for its ability to maintain a high level of acidity even in the intense heat of the Spanish sun, making it ideally suited to the production of Sherry styles, particularly Fino and Manzanilla.
Palomino grapes are found on golden-green vines that feature extensive bunches of similarly coloured grapes. These grapes flourish in Mediterranean climates, particularly in chalky soil conditions, where their roots can penetrate the ground in search of generous water supplies.
In terms of the overall taste profile of this grape, Palomino is recognised for offering a very neutral flavour when vinified table wine, due to its low level of sugar concentration. This attribute makes it an excellent base for blending. However, when it is crafted into Sherry using the special process of aging under a layer of yeast known as flor, it takes on a unique richness and complexity. The end result is crisp and dry, marked by the distinctive taste of almond and green olives.
Over time, the Palomino grape has seen a decrease in commercial cultivation in part due to this neutrality of flavour. But it remains a steadfast variety in its native Spain, and is also grown in South Africa and Australia. Furthermore, recent trends towards minimal intervention and artisanal wines have brought a renewed interest in this grape, paving the way for its potential resurgence. One thing is certain, the legacy of Palomino grape in the tradition and variety of Sherry production continues to make it a worthwhile contender in the world of wine grapes.
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