González Byass Apostoles Palo Cortado NV 375ml

González Byass Apostoles Palo Cortado is a VORS (Very Old Rare Sherry) from the González Byass bodega in Jerez, aged in solera to an average of 30 years. It is a medium Palo Cortado, blending Palomino with a smaller share of Pedro Ximénez, in a 375ml half bottle.

Buy González Byass Apostoles Palo Cortado Online in New Zealand

González Byass was founded in Jerez in 1835 by Manuel María González. The Apostoles solera dates from 1862, and the name comes from the casks themselves: twelve butts named after the apostles, set around a larger one. The wine ages in American oak, and the VORS seal is only granted to sherries certified with an average age of more than 30 years.

Palo Cortado is a rare middle path in sherry. It starts life under flor like a fino or amontillado, then loses its flor and carries on ageing in contact with air like an oloroso. The result has the fine nose of an amontillado with the body of an oloroso. Here a touch of Pedro Ximénez rounds it out and adds a gentle sweetness.

González Byass describes it as:

Nose: Amber, with delicate oxidative notes and layers of nuts, caramel and dried fruit.

Palate: Complex yet smooth, with balanced sweetness.

The bodega suggests serving it slightly chilled with foie gras or mature cheeses. Use a white wine glass and give it time to open. A 375ml bottle pours about six small glasses, which suits a dinner party cheese course.