There are several categories of Sherry, and they vary in sweetness depending on the production process and aging techniques. The different categories include:
Fino
Fino Sherry is a pale, dry style of Sherry that is aged under a layer of yeast called “flor.” This yeast layer protects the wine from oxidation, resulting in a light and crisp flavor profile. Fino Sherry is typically very dry, with a subtle nutty and saline character.
Manzanilla
Manzanilla is a type of Fino Sherry that is specifically produced in the coastal town of Sanlúcar de Barrameda. The proximity to the sea imparts a distinct salty tang to the wine, making it even lighter and more delicate than traditional Fino. Manzanilla is known for its briny, refreshing taste and is also very dry.
Amontillado
Amontillado Sherry starts its life as a Fino or Manzanilla, but at some point, the flor layer dies off, exposing the wine to oxidation. This process gives Amontillado a darker color and a richer, nuttier flavor profile than Fino. It is drier than Oloroso but not as bone-dry as Fino.
Oloroso
Oloroso Sherry is a darker, richer style of Sherry that has been intentionally exposed to oxygen during the aging process. This results in a nutty, caramelized flavor with a deeper color and fuller body. Oloroso is a medium to full-bodied Sherry that is typically dry but can have a touch of residual sweetness.
Palo Cortado
Palo Cortado is a rare and unique style of Sherry that falls somewhere between Amontillado and Oloroso. It starts its life under flor like a Fino, but then inexplicably loses its protection, leading to oxidative aging. Palo Cortado combines the elegance of an Amontillado with the richness of an Oloroso, resulting in a complex and versatile Sherry.
PX (Pedro Ximénez)
PX Sherry is the sweetest style of Sherry, made from sun-dried Pedro Ximénez grapes that are intensely sweet and syrupy. The grapes are pressed, fermented, and then fortified to preserve their natural sweetness. PX Sherry is dark, viscous, and intensely sweet, with flavors of raisins, figs, and caramel.