The grape variety Palomino Fino

Palomino Fino is a white grape variety of Spanish origin, most renowned as the primary grape used for the production of Sherry in the Andalusian region of Jerez. Aromatically, Palomino Fino is subtle and restrained, often exhibiting delicate notes of citrus, green apple, almond, and sometimes a faint salinity reminiscent of the coastal terroir. On the palate, wines made from Palomino Fino are typically light- to medium-bodied, with mild acidity and a clean, dry finish.

The grape thrives in the chalky, albariza soils of southern Spain, particularly around Jerez de la Frontera, Sanlúcar de Barrameda, and El Puerto de Santa María. Outside Spain, smaller plantings can be found in South Africa, Australia, and California, though these are rare.

Palomino Fino shines in a range of styles, most notably as dry Sherries such as Fino and Manzanilla, which are aged under a layer of flor yeast to produce delicate, nutty, and yeasty flavors. It is also used in richer, oxidative styles like Amontillado and Oloroso.

Palomino Fino-based wines pair well with an array of foods, including tapas, salted almonds, Iberian ham, grilled seafood, sushi, and mild cheeses, thanks to their subtle flavors and versatile structure.