Sherry, a fortified wine from the Jerez region of Spain, deserves proper storage to maintain its exquisite flavor and quality. Whether you're a seasoned sherry connoisseur or a curious newbie, understanding how to store sherry correctly is crucial to enjoying its complex character. This guide will walk you through the essentials.
Understanding Sherry's Unique Needs
Unlike many wines, sherry's unique production method—the solera system—results in a wine that's incredibly stable. This doesn't mean you can neglect its storage. Different types of sherry, from the crisp and dry Fino to the rich and sweet Pedro Ximénez, have varying storage requirements to ensure optimal enjoyment.
Factors Affecting Sherry Storage:
- Light: Sherry is sensitive to light. UV rays can degrade the wine's quality, affecting its color and flavor. Store your bottles in a dark, cool place.
- Temperature: Consistent temperature is key. Ideal storage temperature is between 55°F and 65°F (13°C and 18°C). Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations.
- Humidity: Moderate humidity helps prevent cork dryness and leakage. Aim for around 50% to 70% humidity.
- Vibration: While not as critical as temperature and light, excessive vibration can negatively impact the wine's delicate balance.
Optimal Sherry Storage Locations
The best place to store your sherry is in a dark, cool, and consistently temperature-controlled environment. Here are a few options:
1. A Dedicated Wine Cellar:
The ideal scenario. Wine cellars provide the perfect combination of darkness, stable temperature, and humidity.
2. A Cool, Dark Pantry:
If a wine cellar isn't feasible, a cool pantry away from direct sunlight and heat sources can work well.
3. A Wine Rack:
A wine rack in a cool, dark corner of your home helps keep bottles organized and prevents them from rolling around.
4. A Wine Refrigerator:
For those living in warmer climates or lacking suitable storage space, a wine refrigerator is an excellent investment.
Handling Opened Bottles of Sherry
Once opened, sherry's shelf life depends on the type and how it's stored. Many sherries, especially the drier styles like Fino and Manzanilla, will begin to oxidize more rapidly once opened.
- Refrigeration: Opened bottles of sherry can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks to maintain freshness. This is especially true for drier sherries.
- Proper Sealing: Ensure you reseal the bottle tightly after each use to prevent oxidation.
- Consumption Timeline: While some sweeter sherries (like Pedro Ximénez) can last longer after opening, it’s best to consume most sherry within a week or two of opening.
Types of Sherry and Their Storage Considerations
While the basic principles apply to all sherry types, subtle differences exist:
- Fino and Manzanilla: These dry sherries benefit from cooler temperatures and should be consumed relatively quickly after opening.
- Amontillado and Oloroso: These richer sherries can handle slightly warmer temperatures and will last a bit longer after opening.
- Pedro Ximénez: This intensely sweet sherry is more stable and can last longer after opening, particularly if refrigerated.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Sherry!
By following these tips, you can ensure that your sherry collection remains at its peak quality. Remember, proper storage is just as crucial as selecting a high-quality bottle. So relax, savour, and enjoy the unique flavours of this amazing fortified wine!
