Barbadillo La Cilla Sherry 375ml
DescriptionLa Cilla represents Barbadillo's exploration of rare, aged Manzanilla that has transitioned beyond the protective veil of flor, creating something unique in the Sherry spectrum. This half-bottle format preserves a wine of extraordinary complexity, perfect for those special moments when only something truly distinctive will suffice.
The wine displays a beautiful amber-gold color that immediately signals its evolution beyond typical Manzanilla. On the nose, La Cilla offers a fascinating journey through biological and oxidative aging. Initial notes of toasted almonds and hazelnuts speak to its Manzanilla origins, but these are joined by complex oxidative characters—dried apricots, orange peel, and sea-aged driftwood. The maritime influence remains strong, with saline and iodine notes that could only come from Sanlúcar. Hints of caramel, honey, and exotic spices add layers without any cloying sweetness.
The palate reveals the magic that happens when Manzanilla ages beyond its typical window. The texture has gained weight and complexity while maintaining the variety's essential elegance. Bone-dry despite its richness, the wine delivers waves of flavor—roasted nuts, dried fruits, sea salt, and that unique tang from partial biological aging. The oxidative development has added notes of toffee, leather, and spice, creating a wine that bridges categories. The maritime character persists throughout, providing a backbone of salinity that keeps everything fresh and vibrant.
La Cilla in half-bottle format makes this rare style more accessible while ensuring optimal freshness. This is contemplative Sherry, best savored slowly to appreciate its complex evolution. The finish is extraordinarily long, with alternating notes of nuts, dried fruits, and sea spray that seem to echo the wine's dual nature. Perfect as a meditation wine or paired with aged cheeses, cured meats, or nuts. A fascinating glimpse into what happens when Manzanilla is allowed to evolve naturally beyond its conventional boundaries.
