Bodegas De La Riva SL, Manzanilla Pasada Balbaina Alta

Bodegas De La Riva’s Manzanilla Pasada Balbaina Alta is a rare limited-edition sherry from Sanlúcar, showing the more developed, nuanced side of Manzanilla. Sitting stylistically between Manzanilla and Amontillado, it offers the freshness of coastal sherry with extra depth and complexity from partial flor breakdown and extended aging.

Tasting Notes
Pale amber to golden in colour, this Manzanilla Pasada opens with an expressive nose of salty sea breeze, toasted nuts, dried citrus peel and subtle spice. Hints of ripe orchard fruit and a gentle oxidative note add further intrigue. On the palate it is dry, savoury and beautifully layered, combining spicy, fruity and fresh elements with a soft yet generous texture. The finish is impressively long and evolving, with complexity that seems to unfold in waves, revealing new nuances with each sip. This is a sherry with excellent aging potential, though it is already wonderfully complete and drinking beautifully now.

Production
The wine comes from old barrels sourced by Bodegas De La Riva and was reportedly aged for 15–18 years before release. It is made in Sanlúcar de Barrameda from vines rooted in albariza, the region’s highly porous white chalk soil, which drains efficiently and encourages the vines to focus their energy on producing concentrated fruit. The wine’s character reflects its long maturation under flor, with part of that protective yeast layer breaking down over time to create the richer, more evolved style known locally as Manzanilla Pasada.

Food & Serving
Best served lightly chilled, around 8–12°C, this sherry is ideal with classic Spanish tapas. Try it with cured or smoked meats, firm salty cheeses, olives, almonds and other savoury nibbles. Decanting is not necessary, but opening it a little before serving can help the aromas fully unfold.

Producer
Bodegas De La Riva SL is a respected name in the world of traditional sherry, with a focus on characterful, small-scale releases that highlight the nuances of Sanlúcar’s unique terroir. By working with carefully sourced barrels and embracing long aging, the producer has gained attention among sherry lovers seeking authenticity and rarity. This limited Manzanilla Pasada reflects that philosophy: classic, site-driven and deeply expressive.

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