Grape Variety
Palomino
"pah-loh-MEE-noh (lee-STAHN BLAHN-koh)"
Wine Styles
Sparkling
Light White
Full White
Aromatic
Rosé
Light Red
Medium Red
Full Red
DessertAbout Palomino
Origin
Andalusia, Spain
History
Palomino, also known as Listán Blanco in the Canary Islands, is a white grape variety that originated in the Andalusia region of southern Spain. It is the principal grape used in the production of sherry, accounting for approximately 95% of the vineyard area in the Jerez region. The grape is named after Fernán Yáñez Palomino, a knight under King Alfonso X in the 13th century, who is believed to have introduced the variety to the region. Over time, Palomino has become synonymous with sherry production, though it is also cultivated in other regions, including the Canary Islands, where it is known as Listán Blanco.
Appearance
Medium-sized, round berries with a greenish-yellow skin.
Growing Traits
Palomino is known for its high yields and adaptability to various soil types, particularly the chalky 'albariza' soils of Andalusia, which have excellent moisture retention. The grape thrives in hot, dry climates and is valued for its resistance to disease. However, wines produced from Palomino tend to be low in acidity and sugar, making them suitable for fortification in sherry production but less distinctive as unfortified table wines.
Wine Characteristics
Body
2/5
Sweetness
1/5
Tannin
1/5
Acidity
2/5
Alcohol
2/5
Light-bodied with a delicate and subtle character, often serving as a neutral canvas in winemaking. Typically vinified dry, especially in the production of sherry wines. As a white grape variety, Palomino has negligible tannin levels, resulting in a smooth mouthfeel. Low to medium acidity, contributing to its mild and approachable nature. Moderate alcohol content, generally around 12-13%, though it can be higher in fortified wines like sherry.
Taste Profile
Green apple
Almond
Saline
Yeast
Floral
Palomino wines are characterized by delicate aromas of green apple and subtle floral notes. On the palate, they often exhibit flavors of almond and a distinctive saline quality, especially in biologically aged sherries like Fino and Manzanilla. The influence of yeast during the aging process imparts subtle bread-like or yeasty flavors, contributing to the wine's complexity.
Food Pairing
Palomino-based wines, particularly dry sherries like Fino and Manzanilla, pair excellently with a variety of dishes. Their light body and subtle flavors complement seafood, tapas, olives, and almonds. They also enhance the flavors of sushi and light appetizers. Oloroso sherries, with their richer profile, pair well with grilled meats, stews, and aged cheeses.
Growing Regions
Spain
AndalusiaCanary IslandsGalicia
South Africa
Western Cape
Australia
South Australia
United States
California
Notable Wines & Producers
Fino Sherry
González Byass
Bodegas Hidalgo
Manzanilla Sherry
Bodegas Barbadillo
La Gitana
Oloroso Sherry
Lustau
Bodegas Tradición
Palomino FAQ
Common questions about this grape variety
What is the origin of Palomino?
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Andalusia, Spain
Is Palomino wine full bodied?
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Palomino has a body level of 2 out of 5. Which means that Palomino is Moderate to Light bodied.
Is Palomino wine dry or sweet?
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Palomino has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Palomino is Dry.
Where is Palomino wine from?
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Andalusia, Spain
Where is Palomino grown?
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Palomino is grown in Spain (Andalusia, Canary Islands, Galicia)South Africa (Western Cape)Australia (South Australia)United States (California).
What is Palomino like?
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Palomino wines are characterized by delicate aromas of green apple and subtle floral notes. On the palate, they often exhibit flavors of almond and a distinctive saline quality, especially in biologically aged sherries like Fino and Manzanilla. The influence of yeast during the aging process imparts subtle bread-like or yeasty flavors, contributing to the wine's complexity.
What does Palomino pair with?
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Palomino-based wines, particularly dry sherries like Fino and Manzanilla, pair excellently with a variety of dishes. Their light body and subtle flavors complement seafood, tapas, olives, and almonds. They also enhance the flavors of sushi and light appetizers. Oloroso sherries, with their richer profile, pair well with grilled meats, stews, and aged cheeses.
What does Palomino taste like?
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Palomino wines are characterized by delicate aromas of green apple and subtle floral notes. On the palate, they often exhibit flavors of almond and a distinctive saline quality, especially in biologically aged sherries like Fino and Manzanilla. The influence of yeast during the aging process imparts subtle bread-like or yeasty flavors, contributing to the wine's complexity.
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