GRAPE VARIETIES: Sercial
VINEYARDS
Various quality vineyards including at Jardim da Serra on the south of the island at an altitude of 500 m.
VINIFICATION
Blandy’s 10 year old Dry Sercial underwent fermentation off the skins with natural yeast at temperatures between 18°C – 21°C in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks. After approximately 5 days, fortification with grape brandy takes place, arresting fermentation at the desired degree of sweetness.
MATURATION
Blandy’s 10 Year Old Sercial was aged for 10 years in seasoned American oak casks in the traditional Canteiro system, whereby the casks of this wine are gradually transferred from the top floors of the lodge, where it is naturally warmer, to the middle floors and eventually to the ground floor where it is cooler. During this totally natural ageing, the wine underwent regular racking before finally being bottled.
SPECIFICATION
Alcohol: 19% ABV
pH: 3.35
Residual Sugar: 49.6 g/l
Total Acidity: 6.23 g/l tartaric acid
SERVING & CELLARAGE
Blandy’s 10 year old Sercial is fined and does not require decanting. It is excellent as an aperitif but is also exceedingly good with flambées, dried fruits and spicy cheeses. It has been bottled when ready for drinking and will keep for several months after opening.
AWARDS
Silver Medal, IWSC 2004 Bronze Medal, IWC 2003
PRESS COMMENTS
“Dry, bitter almonds. Lovely balancing acidity and hazelnuts on the finish, which is long and satisfying.” IWSC 2004.
TASTING NOTES
Pale, bright topaz colour with a golden tinge, fresh with dry fruit, wood and citrus flavours with a fresh and nutty persistent finish.
