Yesterday was the official Sevilla launch of the fifth edition of Tío Pepe en Rama, a limited production of special fino chosen for its outstanding characteristics, and bottled without the usual processes of stabalization, clarification and filtration. This year 600 barrels from two soleras were monitored, with 60 barrels selected at the beginning of April. Due to its delicate state it is best drunk within three months of the bottling date (April 21st).
En Rama wines have become very popular over the past few years, allowing people to enjoy a “straight out of the cask” sherry experience. Tío Pepe en Rama 2014 is a delightful fino, fresh and yeasty with an intense and slightly briny finish. But there is no one better to tell you about this unique and elegant wine than master wine blender Antonio Flores himself.
At Gonzalez Byass we love the arrival of spring. It signals we are close to sampling the first chilled glass of Tio Pepe Fino En Rama of the year!
2014 marks our 5th edition of Tio Pepe Fino En Rama. It was with the 4th release, last year, that I decided to move away from using the classic Tio Pepe blend of seven Fino soleras. For the first time, I made a cask selection blending the super-charged Rebollo (a very dark and humid bodega producing the most concentrated and full-on Fino experience) and Constancia (classic Jerez fino, whistle clean with a bright lemony tang.) I love leaving a little chalk mark hidden on the side of the cask each time I discover a contender for the year’s En Rama selection!
Once again we have delved into our extensive archives to find an historic label that represents the sense of place and history encapsulated by this pure expression of Tio Pepe.
¡Salud!
~Antonio Flores
It was great seeing Antonio “in action” again, though the accoustics at the Alfonso XIII Hotel could have been better (and the people who didn’t stop talking during the presentation should be ashamed of themselves) but overall it was a very enjoyable event. There was a tasting of the three stages of Tío Pepe en Rama, from the first must to the final product, and we were treated to a nice variety of snacks accompanied by plenty of perfectly chilled En Rama, as well as other exquisite Gonzalez Byass sherries.
Tío Pepe en Rama ~ Puro Zumo de Flor
You can order Tío Pepe en Rama 2014 from the Gonzalez Byass online store or (in Sevilla) buy it at El Corte Inglés Gourmet Experience Duque.