Best Andalusian Spirit Types
Brandy de Jerez is a type of Spanish brandy that is made in the sherry triangle. It has to be aged using the traditional solera system, and the maturation has to take place in the barrels that were previously used for sherry production.
Airén is the most common grape variety used in the production of Jerez brandy. Despite some differences that are mainly dependent on the age and the barrel, brandy de Jerez usually varies from golden brown to mahogany. On the nose, it displays spicy, roasty, and woody notes.
Aguardiente de Ojén is an anise-flavored spirit that originated in a small village of Ojén in southern Andalusia. The original, which was probably based on a wine distillate, dates from 1830 when Pedro Morales distilled his first batch.
The drink was an instant, but short-lasting success, as the original recipe was lost after last Morales died without disclosing the recipe. Another version (White Label Ojén) was created in Jerez by Manuel Fernández. This version was mainly exported, especially to New Orleans, where the original spirit was immensely popular and used in the trendy Ojen cocktail.
Brandy de Jerez Solera Reserva is a mid-tier expression within the Brandy de Jerez classifications, offering a balance between the youthful vibrancy of Solera and the deep complexity of Gran Reserva. It is aged for a minimum of one year, though many Solera Reserva brandies are aged longer to achieve a more refined flavor profile.
This category provides an excellent introduction to the nuanced flavors that extended aging imparts on Brandy de Jerez. It contains a significant amount of volatile components, 200 grams per hectoliter of pure alcohol, to be precise, that contribute to its complexity and rich aroma.
Brandy de Jerez Gran Reserva is the oldest Jerez brandy, the most premium and aged expression of Brandy de Jerez, representing the pinnacle of quality within its classifications. It is aged for a minimum of three years, but typically, these spirits are matured for an average of ten years.
This extensive aging process results in a concentration of 250 grams of volatile components per hectoliter of pure alcohol, often exceeding this measure, which enhances its rich and complex profile. The visual appeal of this brandy is striking, with a deep mahogany hue, iodized tones, and greenish flashes at the rim of the glass, indicating its prolonged maturation.
Brandy de Jerez Solera is the youngest and fruitiest variety of Brandy de Jerez, produced in the "Sherry Triangle in Spain". It is aged for a period ranging from six months to one year in American oak barrels and contains up to 150 grams per hectoliter of pure alcohol in volatile components, contributing to its aromatic complexity and depth.
Visually, it has tones ranging from straw gold to amber, highlighted by elegant yellow reflections. The luminosity of the brandy reflects its youthful nature and careful aging process. The primary aromas are of the raw materials used in its production, but also that of the base wine and the spirits distilled from it.
Cazalla is an anise-flavored liqueur that originates from Cazalla de la Sierra (Seville). The drink is clear and colorless and is typically bottled at 49% ABV. It is usually produced as a dry (seco) anise drink. This spirit is flavored with the aniseed plant (Pimpinella anisum) and has a herbaceous character dominated by a long-lasting anise aroma.
Cazalla can be enjoyed as an aperitif or a digestive. It is often mixed with water, mistela (a combination of grape must and alcohol), or lemon juice. When mixed with water, it turns into a milky white beverage. The history of the drink probably dates back to the 16th century and the town of Cazalla de la Sierra in Andalusia.
Best Andalusian Spirits
Fundador Sherry Cask Solera is a distinguished Brandy de Jerez Solera, celebrated for its unique style and versatility, making it an excellent choice for mixing. Aged in Sherry Casks that once held sherry wine, this exceptional brandy masterfully combines tradition and innovation, redefining the brandy category.
Its radiant, bright amber color is visually captivating, while the aroma is complex and balanced, showcasing notes of hardwood and a vinous character imparted by its aging process. On the palate, it is harmonious and smooth, with a vinous richness and a pleasant, lasting finish.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
Fundador Triple Madera is an exceptional Solera Gran Reserva brandy, inspired by the 19th-century solera tradition. Its unique character is achieved through triple aging in Sherry Casks that previously held Amontillado, Oloroso, and Pedro Ximénez sherries, resulting in a truly sophisticated and unparalleled flavor profile.
With its deep amber mahogany color, highlighted by luminous orange reflections, it captivates the eye. The complex aroma weaves together spicy oak and wine esters with hints of ripe fruits, honey, vanilla, and toffee. On the palate, it is exquisitely balanced, offering smoothness, body, and roundness, enriched by flavors of vanilla, candied fruits, and a touch of caramel.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
AWARDS
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Chairman's Trophy
2021
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Top 100
2021
AWARDS
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Chairman's Trophy
2023
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Top 100
2023
Fundador Terry Primero is a premium Spanish brandy crafted by Bodegas Fundador, one of the oldest wineries in Jerez, established in 1730. This brandy is part of the rich tradition of Brandy de Jerez, renowned for its distinctive flavor and aroma. Its color is an intense amber with golden highlights, bright and luminous.
The aroma is warm and rounded, featuring notes of dried fruits and toasted wood, offering a complex and structured profile. On the palate, it is smooth and robust, with hints of vanilla and nuts, harmoniously balanced with a vinous character. The flavor is further enhanced by the long aging process in barrels that previously held Oloroso sherry, adding depth and complexity.
AWARDS
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2022
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
Fundador Doble Madera is a refined Solera Reserva brandy, meticulously crafted and aged in select Sherry Casks that previously held Amontillado and Oloroso sherries. This dual maturation process imparts a luxurious velvety texture and a rich, vinous character, elevating the brandy to exceptional heights.
Its radiant amber topaz color with orange highlights sets the tone for an elegant sensory experience. The sophisticated aroma unfolds with a harmonious blend of warm spices, dried fruits, honey, and creamy toffee, while the taste is exceptionally smooth and well-rounded, revealing layers of almonds, sherry-infused richness, and a subtle caramel finish.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
AWARDS
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2023
AWARDS
World Gin Awards - Country Winner
2022
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