Certified Sommelier Practice Exam

What is the primary characteristic of Almacenistas in sherry production?

1. A single Solera bottled unblended

2. Sherry aged for a minimum of 30 years

3. Fortified to at least 18%

4. A blend of various sherry styles

The correct answer is: A single Solera bottled unblended

The primary characteristic of Almacenistas in sherry production relates to the unique practice of bottling a single solera unblended. Almacenistas are small-scale producers who typically have their own cask (or solera) of sherry that they age and bottle individually, rather than blending their sherries with those from other producers to create a standard house style. This results in distinctive and varied expressions, showcasing the specific character of their individual soleras. The focus on maintaining the integrity of a single solera allows for the personality of the wine to shine through, which is a hallmark of the artisan approach these producers take in their craft. In contrast, sherries aged for a minimum of 30 years or those fortified to at least 18% do not specifically define the Almacenista practice, as these characteristics can apply to a variety of sherry producers. Similarly, a blend of various sherry styles typically describes larger producers who aim for consistency across their offerings rather than the individualistic approach of Almacenistas.