Published on June 15th, 2016 | by Ruben
0Fino del Puerto ‘3 En Rama 2016’ (Lustau)
This Fino is matured in the Bodega del Drago, located less than a mile from the beach of El Puerto de Santa María. This city has a moderate climate and is the closest you can get to the sea in the sherry triangle. Hence intense coastal aromas and often a very typical diesel-like note, not unlike what you can get in Riesling wines.
It is a selection of butts from the solera of Lustau’s commonly available Puerto Fino. The wine has an average age of 5 years.
3 En Rama Fino del Puerto – Spring 2016
(15,5%, Lustau, 50 cl)
Nose: plenty of sea spray, aromas of sea shells and seaweed. Softened by a hint of apple. A light petrol note as well, typical for this part of the sherry triangle. Wet limestone and hints of oak. It may not be the most complex nose but I love its balance and restrained power.
Mouth: more powerful than expected, almost entirely on coastal notes, green olives and a peppery / oaky tingle. Maybe also the most alcoholic of the three, but it’s never rough. It gains smoothness and some almond sweetness in the background. A subtle smoky hint as well? Long finish, salty and briney.
Availability: limited of course. Around € 20 for a 50 cl bottle.
Summary: A very intense Fino del Puerto this year, with highly typical characteristics including the specific diesel-like aroma. Not the most complex of the trio - probably the most unique though. Should be great with sushi.