Andalucía

DO named after two cities, located in the south of the province of Córdoba in region of Andalusia in southern Spain. The vineyard area totals around 10.000 hectares, the vineyards are located at an altitude of 300 to 700 metres above sea level. Until 1933, a large portion of the wines was delivered to Jerez, which lies to the west, and were used to produce sherry there. Since then this practice has been forbidden by law. The dominant white grape variety is Pedro Ximénez, and wines are made in sherry style, using a solera for maturation, in variants such as Fino, Amontillado, Oloroso and Palo Cortado. The grapes are left to dry on the vine if they are destined for use in the heavier sweet versions. In contrast to its more famous neighbour, the wine is only rarely fortified, as the natural fermentation of the extremely sweet Pedro Ximénez grapes (instead of the Palomino used for sherry) results in alcohol levels of 16% vol. without any assistance. In addition, fruity white wines (Jovenes Afrutado) are made from Baladí, Torrontés, Pedro Ximénez and Moscatel grapes.