692. Rey Fernando de Castilla, Antique Palo Cortado Sherry, NV (2012)

£32 / 50cl; 20%

I think I have only the F fino left to complete the set of these! A definite citrus dimension to this very good quality Palo Cortado. Medium amber colour. No olive on the broad, caramel rim. Intense, rancio and caramel-led nose, which opens into spicy stewed mandarins and citrus peel. Some hints of almond and beeswax. Medium+ bodied, medium- acidity, with a slightly salty, oak-spice palate – perhaps even some tannin? More citrus notes too, but particularly on the palate, a hazelnut flavour is more pronounced, with a long, cheesy, rancio finish. Definitely good with salted, mixed nuts! Good.