How to Taste a Fondillón Step by Step
Fondillón is the great enological treasure of Alicante, a unique sweet wine from oxidative aging found nowhere else in the world. Tasting it properly enhances the enjoyment significantly. We guide you step by step.
What is Fondillón?
Fondillón is made solely from overripe Monastrell grapes, ferments naturally, and ages for many years in wood through oxidative aging and the solera system. The result is a rancio wine, sweet-dry, with enormous complexity and a very long lifespan.
Temperature and Glass
Serve it between 14 and 16 ºC, neither cold nor warm, in a narrow glass that concentrates its aromas. A small amount is enough: it’s a wine to savor slowly.
Appearance, Nose, and Palate
Appearance: amber or mahogany color, with iodine highlights. Nose: dried fruit, walnut, cocoa, coffee, and notes of aging. Palate: smooth yet with a dry, long finish, straddling sweetness and acidity.
What to Enjoy It With
Alone, as a contemplative wine, or with nougat, dark chocolate, aged cheeses, and nuts. A glass of Fondillón is the perfect ending to a meal from Alicante.
Frequently asked questions
Is Fondillón sweet or dry? +
It is a unique wine: it starts from very sweet overripe grapes but ends up being dry or semi-sweet, with a long, complex finish.
At what temperature should it be served? +
Between 14 and 16 ºC, in a small narrow glass, to appreciate its aromas properly.
How long does an opened bottle last? +
As an oxidative aging wine, it can last open for weeks or even months without losing its qualities.
