Made from 100% Palomino fino, Palo Cortado is a rare sherry that begins its life as a Fino, protected by a veil of flor which mysteriously disappears. Once the veil is lifted, the wine develops oxidative, Oloroso characteristics and brandy is added which fortifies it to 19% abv, stabilizes it and protects it from further, excessive oxidation. It's then aged in a Solera in which multiple vintages are fractionally blended and that  averages 12 years old. At 6 grams per liter of residual sugar, it's bone dry but with some heft, combining tangy, delicate Amontillado characteristics with the richness of an Oloroso. Best served slightly chilled as an aperitif, the aromas and palate of cacao, espresso and dried apricot pair beautifully with olives, nuts and hard cheese with fig jam and quince paste.