Jerez, Spain
Vino de la Tierra de Cádiz DO
Barbadillo is an iconic Spanish producer with a catalogue of wines that rivals any of the greatest chateaus or estates of the world. They are synonymous with Sanlucar de Barrameda, near the mouth of the Guadalquivir River, where the winery has stood since 1821. And their oenological work, in the south of Spain, is virtually unrivalled by any producer in the entire country. Despite its insane level of success, the Barbadillo family continues to be at the forefront of innovation, small-scale projects and modernization of the region.
Sabaló is a wine created to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the winery. Palomino Fino, typically used in their production of sherry, is deftly crafted into an all-organic white table wine with the extraordinary hallmarks of the albariza soils and the unique microclimate of the estate. The grapes come exclusively from two Albariza vineyards, one of them located near the sea in Sanlúcar - a vineyard more than 35 years old - and the other vineyard, more internal, is located on the watchtower of a hill from where you can see the marshes between Sanlúcar and Trebujena. This vineyard is more than 25 years old.
Grapes are hand-harvested and the fermentation is carried out slowly in stainless steel tanks, with indigenous yeasts, and a lees aging component of 4 months. On the nose there are complex notes of ripe crunchy apple, juicy peach and dried herbs, while the palate is full and textured with ripe fruit and soft saline notes. There's sort of a spiciness to the wine, reminiscent of the same sensation you get from a sharp cheddar, that adds to the complexity. A true showcase of the potential of Palomino Fino beyond its incredible roots at the heart of sherry production.
This is terrific with just about any seafood you can possibly imagine. Also great with sushi, some spicy dishes, tofu, artichokes, grilled vegetables and soft, ripe cheeses.