Tasting Notes
Croft sherry has a clean crisp taste and an aromatic sweet finish giving you a lighter, fresher alternative to traditional dark sherries
History
Over 175 years ago Robert Byass, a British wine merchant, partnered with the Gonzalez family in Spain, in order to bring great sherries to the UK. Still family-owned, the company now sells sherries and wine across the world. Croft Original was designed especially to suit British tastes and this pale, crisp Fino with its delicate, sweet finish has been enjoyed for generations.
Regional Information
The vineyards in Jerez are unique to the area. The soil in Jerez is majority Albariza, a white soil which contains up to 60% chalk and therefore has a large capacity for maintaining moisture, very important given the long, hot and dry summers as irrigation is prohibited. The area has a unique microclimate influenced by the surrounding Atlantic ocean and rivers Guadalquivir and Guadalete. The prevailing winds are moist and warm, and now and again dry and hot levante winds from north Africa.
Vinification Details
Croft is produced from the first press of the continuous press. Following fermentation to between 11% and 12% alcohol the wine is fortified to 15.5% alcohol and then enters the Croft solera. Due to the 15.5% alcohol and the unique temperature and humidity in the Jerez cellars a layer of yeast known as the 'flor' forms on the surface of the wine. This flor is the most important influence on the wine as it protects it from oxygen and gives it it's unique aroma and character.
