Discover Sherry Country: Jerez and Andalusia
Jerez de la Frontera, the heart of Spain’s sherry production, offers a unique blend of wine culture and Andalusian charm. This region, known for its fortified wines, boasts a rich history and stunning landscapes.
Towns and Villages
Explore the Sherry Triangle, comprising Jerez de la Frontera, Sanlúcar de Barrameda, and El Puerto de Santa María. Each town showcases distinct sherry styles and cultural attractions.
- Jerez de la Frontera: The main hub, known for its flamenco heritage and sherry bodegas
- Sanlúcar de Barrameda: Famous for Manzanilla sherry and seafood
- El Puerto de Santa María: Coastal charm with historic sherry houses
Wine Producers
Visit renowned sherry bodegas for tours and tastings. Many offer unique experiences beyond standard visits.
- Gonzalez Byass: Home of Tio Pepe, offers an extensive tour with a train ride through the vineyards
- Lustau: Known for its wide range of sherries and expert-led tastings
- Hidalgo La Gitana: Specializes in Manzanilla and offers beachside tastings in Sanlúcar
Accommodations
Choose from a variety of lodging options, from luxurious wine-themed hotels to charming B&Bs in historic buildings.
- Hotel Bodega Tío Pepe: Stay in a converted bodega in Jerez
- Casa Palacio María Luisa: Luxury hotel in a restored 19th-century palace
- Hotel Duques de Medinaceli: Coastal elegance in El Puerto de Santa María
Dining
Savor local cuisine perfectly paired with sherry. Many restaurants offer sherry flights to complement your meal.
- La Carboná: Michelin-recommended restaurant in Jerez with an extensive sherry list
- Casa Bigote: Seafood institution in Sanlúcar, ideal for trying Manzanilla with local dishes
- El Faro: Upscale dining in El Puerto de Santa María, known for its innovative sherry pairings
Wine Shops & Bars
Explore the local wine scene beyond the bodegas at these specialized shops and bars:
- Taberna der Guerrita: A historic tavern in Sanlúcar with an extensive sherry selection
- La Casa del Jerez: Wine shop in Jerez offering tastings and a wide range of local wines
- Taberna La Botika: Cozy bar in El Puerto de Santa María known for its sherry flights
Other Shops
Pick up local specialties and souvenirs at these unique stores:
- Gourmet Experience El Corte Inglés: High-end food market in Jerez with local products
- Arte y Sabor: Artisanal shop in Sanlúcar selling regional foods and crafts
- Alfareria Padilla Arce: Traditional pottery shop in El Puerto de Santa María
Attractions
Discover the region’s rich culture and history at these must-visit sites:
- Alcázar de Jerez: 11th-century Moorish fortress with beautiful gardens
- Real Escuela Andaluza del Arte Ecuestre: Equestrian school showcasing Andalusian horses
- Castillo de Santiago: Medieval castle in Sanlúcar with panoramic views
Events
Plan your visit around these exciting annual events:
- Feria del Caballo: Jerez’s horse fair in May, celebrating equestrian culture
- Fiesta de la Manzanilla: Sherry festival in Sanlúcar during May and June
- Festival de Jerez: Flamenco and dance festival held in February and March
Appellations
Understand the region’s wine classifications:
- D.O. Jerez-Xérès-Sherry: Main appellation for sherry production
- D.O. Manzanilla-Sanlúcar de Barrameda: Specific to Manzanilla sherry
- Vino de la Tierra de Cádiz: Designation for table wines from the region
Grape Varieties
Palomino Fino is the primary grape used in Sherry production. It thrives in Jerez’s chalky albariza soil and hot climate.
Other important varieties include:
- Pedro Ximénez: Used for sweet sherries
- Moscatel: Another sweet wine grape
- Tintilla de Rota: A rare red variety
Main Wine Styles
Jerez produces a range of fortified wines known as Sherry. The main styles include:
- Fino: Dry and light
- Manzanilla: Similar to Fino, but from Sanlúcar de Barrameda
- Amontillado: Aged Fino, nuttier and darker
- Oloroso: Full-bodied and rich
- Palo Cortado: Rare style, combining Amontillado and Oloroso characteristics
- Pedro Ximénez: Intensely sweet
Food Specialties
Jerez’s cuisine pairs perfectly with its wines. Local delicacies include:
- Jamón ibérico: Cured ham from black Iberian pigs
- Pescaíto frito: Assorted fried fish
- Tortilla de camarones: Shrimp fritters
- Rabo de toro: Oxtail stew
Drives & Walks
Explore the Sherry Triangle by car, connecting Jerez, Sanlúcar de Barrameda, and El Puerto de Santa María.
Take a scenic walk through Jerez’s historic center, visiting bodegas and the Alcázar.
Itineraries
3-Day Sherry Immersion
- Day 1: Jerez bodega tours and tasting
- Day 2: Visit Sanlúcar for Manzanilla and seafood
- Day 3: Explore El Puerto de Santa María’s bodegas
Week-long Andalusian Adventure
- Days 1-3: Sherry Triangle exploration
- Day 4: Day trip to Cádiz
- Day 5: Visit Arcos de la Frontera
- Days 6-7: Relax on Costa de la Luz beaches
Getting There & Around
Jerez de la Frontera has its own airport with connections to major European cities. Alternatively, fly into Seville or Málaga and take a train or rent a car.
- Train: Regular services connect Jerez to Seville, Cádiz, and other Andalusian cities
- Car: Ideal for exploring the Sherry Triangle and surrounding areas
- Bus: Economical option for inter-city travel
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Avoid August, as it’s extremely hot and many businesses close.
Plan your visit around these wine-related events:
- Feria de Jerez: May
- Vendimia (grape harvest): September
Sustainability Efforts
Many Jerez wineries are adopting eco-friendly practices:
- Organic viticulture: Reducing pesticide use
- Water conservation: Implementing drip irrigation
- Solar energy: Powering bodegas with renewable energy
Support sustainable tourism by choosing eco-certified accommodations and tours.
Language Tips
While English is spoken in tourist areas, learning a few Spanish phrases will enhance your experience:
- “Una copa de fino, por favor” – A glass of fino, please
- “¿Cuál es su vino favorito?” – What’s your favorite wine?
- “Salud!” – Cheers!
Further Resources
Enhance your Jerez wine knowledge with these resources:
- Sherry Wines Official Website
- Jerez Tourism Office
- Book: “Sherry, Manzanilla & Montilla” by Peter Liem and Jesús Barquín
Join online forums or local wine clubs to connect with fellow Sherry enthusiasts.
