Lustau ‘Amacenista – Pata de Gallina Jarana 1/38’ Oloroso (19.5-/20), dark and deep
mahogany colour with green hues, this possessed richness and complexity of nuts
and dried fruits on bouquet, some volatility adding lift and superb rancio
complexity. Dry on palate the elegance
and liveliness was incredible. Delicate dried fruits, nuts, raisin hints,
classic rancio, tightly bound with perfect acidity, the balance of componentry
and length of flavour put this into another class. RC July 10
Braised Marinated Pork
Belly; Butterbeans and Paprika, Rocket and Hazelnut Picada, and Crusty Bread - Oloroso sherries vary considerably in style, sweetness being
one major difference. The dry Lustau ‘Amacenista’ Oloroso ‘Jarana 1/38’ (19.5/20), itself a
magnificent wine, rich, lush with character, full and textured, yet superbly
balanced with clean spirit cut and a little volatile lift and complexity. The wine became more lively and fresh; the
pork belly melted with the sherry and the whole taste lifted. Depth of flavour was enhanced and the
combination was certainly greater than the parts. This was probably the best pairing of the
evening.