Harvey's Sherry Amontillado Medium Dry Sherry

On the shelves of The General Wine sits a sherry waiting to be discovered: Harvey's Amontillado Medium Dry Sherry. This delightful tipple boasts a rich heritage, dating back to 1796 when Harvey's first set sail for the shores of Spain, bringing the finest sherries to British shores. But enough about history, let's delve into the golden amber liquid itself!

Appearance:  The first impression comes from the visual. Harvey's Amontillado Medium Dry pours a beautiful shade of golden amber, reminiscent of a sunlit autumn afternoon. As you swirl it in the glass, notice the viscosity – it clings slightly to the sides, hinting at the smooth, full-bodied character to come.

Nose:  Bring the glass closer and take a gentle sniff. The initial aroma might surprise you – a subtle nuttiness emerges first, like freshly toasted hazelnuts. Look beyond that, and whispers of dried fruits and a hint of vanilla peek through. The influence of oak ageing becomes apparent with a touch of wood spice, adding complexity to the bouquet.

Palate:  The first sip is a revelation. The expected dryness of a medium sherry is balanced beautifully by a touch of sweetness. The nutty character from the nose explodes on the palate, coating your tongue in a delightful wave of hazelnut and almond flavours. Hints of dried apricot and fig add a touch of fruitiness, while the oak ageing comes through with a subtle vanilla creaminess. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a lingering warmth and a pleasant aftertaste of toasted nuts.

Body:  This sherry is medium-bodied, offering a luxurious and satisfying mouthfeel without being heavy. It has a good weight that coats the palate without being overpowering, making it perfect for sipping and savouring.

Overall Impression:  Harvey's Amontillado Medium Dry Sherry is a delightful and versatile drink. It strikes a perfect balance between dryness and sweetness, making it an excellent choice for those who find traditional sherries a touch too dry. The complex interplay of nutty, fruity, and oaky flavours creates a truly captivating drinking experience.

Food Pairing:

Harvey's Amontillado Medium Dry Sherry's versatility shines through when it comes to food pairings. Here are some suggestions to elevate your culinary journey:

• Appetisers:  The nutty character of the sherry makes it a perfect partner for savoury appetisers. Pair it with a selection of British cheeses like cheddar, Red Leicester, or a creamy Stilton. The sherry cuts through the richness of the cheese, creating a delightful harmony. Smoked salmon canapés also find a wonderful match in this Amontillado, with the smoky notes complementing the nutty flavours.
• Main Courses:  Venture beyond appetisers and explore the world of main courses. Roast chicken with all the trimmings finds a fantastic companion in Harvey's Amontillado. The sherry's subtle sweetness complements the savoury flavours of the chicken and roasted vegetables, while the nutty character adds another layer of complexity. For a taste of the sea, try grilled dover sole with a lemon butter sauce. The sherry's acidity cuts through the richness of the fish, while the nutty notes enhance the delicate flavours.
• Desserts:  Don't relegate Harvey's Amontillado to just the savoury side of the table. Its touch of sweetness makes it a surprising partner for certain desserts. A slice of apple pie or a pear tart finds its perfect match in this sherry. The acidity of the fruit cuts through the sweetness of the dessert, while the nutty notes add a touch of sophistication. For a truly decadent experience, try a slice of creamy cheesecake with a drizzle of honey. The sherry's richness complements the cheesecake, while the honey adds another layer of sweetness to create a truly harmonious ending to a meal.

Serving Suggestions:

To fully appreciate the complexities of Harvey's Amontillado Medium Dry Sherry, serve it slightly chilled, ideally between 10-11°C. This temperature range helps to accentuate the delicate flavours and aromas of the sherry. Use a white wine glass to allow for proper swirling and appreciation of the bouquet.

In Conclusion:

Harvey's Amontillado Medium Dry Sherry is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by British sherry enthusiasts. Its delightful balance of dryness and sweetness, along with its complex flavours of nuts, fruit, and oak, makes it a truly versatile drink. So, next time you're browsing the shelves at The General Wine, look out for this golden beauty. It might just become your new favourite sherry!