One sniff and you know for sure that this is the real deal: oxidized, delicious Sherry. It’s got an appetizingly dark caramel color that really looks a lot more like brandy than most wines you see these days: there’s also a whiff of burnt almonds on the nose as well.In the mouth, it’s luxuriously smooth with a lush sweetness nicely counterbalanced by friendly acidity that all seems just right. On the finish, the flavors repeat themselves: toasted nuts, caramelized sugar, and something like spring wildflowers (honest!) – it’s almost like orange flower water.

It’s even better with roasted Spanish almonds right before dinner.

Williams & Humbert
Price: US $11.99
Closure: Cork, resealable
Tasted: November 2007