Everything About Palomino Grape
"pah-loh-MEE-noh (lee-STAHN BLAHN-koh)" 
Palomino Description
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.
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.
Body
Sweetness
Tannin
Acidity
Alcohol
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.
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.
Regions
![[object Object] Region](/regions/spain.png)
Spain
•Andalusia
•Canary Islands
•Galicia
![[object Object] Region](/regions/south_africa.png)
South Africa
•Western Cape
![[object Object] Region](/regions/australia.png)
Australia
•South Australia
![[object Object] Region](/regions/united_states.png)
United States
•California
Notable Wines and Producers
Fino Sherry
•González Byass
•Bodegas Hidalgo
Manzanilla Sherry
•Bodegas Barbadillo
•La Gitana
Oloroso Sherry
•Lustau
•Bodegas Tradición
Palomino FAQ
Andalusia, Spain
Palomino has a body level of 2 out of 5. Which means that Palomino is Moderate to Light bodied.
Palomino has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Palomino is Dry.
Andalusia, Spain
Palomino is grown in Spain (Andalusia, Canary Islands, Galicia)South Africa (Western Cape)Australia (South Australia)United States (California).
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.
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.
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.