Hidalgo La Gitana Pasada Pastrana Sherry

Unveiling a Treasure: A Detailed Tasting Note and Food Pairing Guide for Hidalgo La Gitana Pasada Pastrana Sherry

At The General Wine Company, we take pride in curating a selection of exceptional wines, and the Hidalgo La Gitana Pasada Pastrana Sherry is no exception. This aged Manzanilla transcends the typical characteristics of its younger counterparts, offering a unique and flavourful experience for discerning palates.

This detailed tasting note will delve into the captivating world of Hidalgo La Gitana Pasada Pastrana, exploring its aroma, flavour profile, and ideal food pairings.

A Journey Through the Senses: Tasting Hidalgo La Gitana Pasada Pastrana

• Aroma: The first encounter with Hidalgo La Gitana is an awakening of the senses. On the nose, a vibrant bouquet unfolds, characterised by the classic Manzanilla freshness of saline notes and hints of sea spray. This is further complemented by layers of complexity developed through ageing, revealing delicate aromas of chamomile, toasted almonds, and a touch of flor (yeast) character.
• Palate: The initial sip is a delightful surprise. While retaining the characteristic Manzanilla crispness, the Pasada Pastrana boasts a richer and fuller body compared to its younger counterparts. The influence of ageing becomes apparent with a subtle nuttiness and a touch of honeyed sweetness that lingers on the palate. Underlying this richness, the core of the wine remains true to its Manzanilla roots, showcasing a vibrant acidity and a distinctive saline minerality.
• Finish: The finish of Hidalgo La Gitana is long and satisfying. The saline and citrus notes return, leaving a clean and refreshing sensation on the palate. Hints of toasted almonds and chamomile linger, adding a touch of complexity to the overall experience.

Food Pairings to Elevate Your Enjoyment

Hidalgo La Gitana Pasada Pastrana's unique character makes it a versatile food pairing companion. Here are some suggestions to unlock its full potential:

• Seafood:  This is a natural pairing. The wine's salinity and acidity beautifully complement the flavours of fresh seafood.  Try it with grilled oysters, pan-seared scallops, or a seafood paella.
• Tapas:  Embrace the Spanish tradition and pair Hidalgo La Gitana with a selection of tapas. Opt for flavours that echo the wine's profile, such as jamón ibérico (Iberian ham), gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp), or boquerones en vinagre (marinated anchovies).
• Strong Cheeses:  The richness and nutty character of the wine stand up well to strong cheeses.  Consider pairing it with a creamy Manchego cheese, a sharp cheddar, or a pungent blue cheese.
• Creamy Dishes:  The wine's acidity cuts through the richness of creamy sauces, making it a perfect complement to dishes like pasta carbonara, creamy mushroom risotto, or chicken saltimbocca.
• Cured Meats:  Hidalgo La Gitana's nuttiness and salinity pair wonderfully with cured meats like prosciutto, salami, or chorizo.
• Vegetable Dishes:  Don't shy away from pairing this wine with vegetables. The wine's acidity enhances the flavours of roasted vegetables, grilled asparagus, or a simple salad with a vinaigrette dressing.

Beyond the Pairing: Serving Suggestions

To fully appreciate the nuances of Hidalgo La Gitana Pasada Pastrana, serve it slightly chilled, ideally between 10-12°C. This temperature range preserves the wine's crispness while allowing the richer, aged character to emerge.

A Note on Manzanilla Sherry and Pasada Classification

Manzanilla Sherry hails from the coastal region of Sanlúcar de Barrameda in Spain.  Known for its bone-dry style, vibrant acidity, and characteristic saline notes, Manzanilla is considered the lightest and most delicate style of Sherry.

The term "Pasada" refers to Manzanilla that has undergone a longer ageing process than its younger counterparts.  Hidalgo La Gitana Pasada Pastrana benefits from additional ageing under a layer of flor yeast, adding a touch of complexity and richness to the wine.

In Conclusion: A Sherry for the Discerning Palate

Hidalgo La Gitana Pasada Pastrana Sherry is a remarkable expression of Manzanilla. Its unique combination of freshness, richness, and complexity makes it a captivating wine for both seasoned Sherry enthusiasts and curious newcomers.

At The General Wine Company, we invite you to embark on a flavourful journey with Hidalgo La Gitana Pasada Pastrana. Explore the world of food pairings suggested above, or discover your own culinary matches.  We are confident that this exceptional Sherry will leave a lasting impression.