Fernando de Castilla Solera Gran Reserva Brandy de Jerez

Bodegas Rey Fernando de Castilla is located in the historic centre of Jerez. Its story began with the aristocratic Andrada-Vanderwilde family, who for two centuries provided grapes and wine for the production of sherry in the area. In 1972 Fernando Andrada-Vanderwilde took over some old sherry cellars and brandy soleras from a couple of local bodegas, and changed the name of the company from Fernando III to Fernando de Castilla.

In 1999 Jan Pettersen, a Norwegian with 15 years experience at Osborne, bought the company and also acquired a neighbouring almacenista, José Bustamente. He also formed a partnership with a local grape grower, to ensure consistent supply of high quality grapes, unusual for the smaller bodegas, who usually have to rely on co-operatives. He decided to focus entirely on high-end, complex sherries – in the process upgrading the bodega to one of the most interesting and highly regarded of the small independent sherry houses in Jerez.

Whilst the company also produces Sherry Vinegar, and their own range of brandies, the Sherries produced here are amongst the finest in Jerez – from the pale, dry and elegant fino to the most unique antique wines.

There are two ranges: Classic, and the premium Antique range. It is the excellence of the Antique range of intensely pure and complex single solera Sherries that has largely driven Fernando de Castilla’s reputation as masters in the production and ageing of fine, unblended, untreated Sherries (they do not fine, clarify or aggressively filter any of their wines).

Vineyards

Produced in the Jerez region of Andalusia, Spain.

Vinification

Pot still distillates are aged in barrels that have previously contained only old oloroso sherries and the ageing process is done using the traditional system of soleras and criaderas. The Solera Gran Reserva has been aged for 12 years – 3 years in Limousin casks and 9 years in sherry casks.

Tasting Notes

Fernando de Castilla Solera Gran Reserva is a superior quality Spanish Brandy made using only the traditional method. It was matured in oak vats previously used for the world famous sherries of Jerez. It has a golden/mahogany colour and the nose is clean, elegant and complex with a hint of oak. The palate is soft, fruity and elegant with a broad range of flavours. Well matured with a long finish.