June 2017 – amflorisms

Visiting El Maestro Sierra

June 27, 2017 Sam Burns wines

A story of triumph against archaic expectations of class and gender, beginning early in the 19th century with working class master cooper José Antonio Sierra – ‘El Maestro’ Sierra are all about their very old wines, preserving some of the oldest soleras and wines in the Jerez region. Led by a succession of formidable women, their traditionally made ancient sherries are a real treasure, of astonishing quality and complexity.

Visiting Fernando de Castilla

June 19, 2017 Sam Burns wines

Bodegas Rey Fernando de Castilla produces exceptional sherries thanks to the passionate work of Norwegian born, long term Andalusian resident and true gentleman, Jan Petterson. With care taken from vineyard to bottle, these sherries and brandies are of serious quality, but the bodega remains a relatively small, artisan producer.

Tasting Cruz Vieja Sherries at Bodegas Faustino Gonzalez

June 4, 2017 Sam Burns wines

Former Almacenista turned boutique Bodega, Faustino Gonzalez have been a family operation since being established in 1971. Their traditional methods, including barrel fermented base wines made with grapes from their own superb albariza vineyards, and exceptionally old soleras dating from 1758, produce exquisite sherries. A tiny bodega, passionately making fabulous sherry the way it should be.