A glass or two, or three, of Sherry

Being rather fond of Sherry, one of the most under-rated and good-value wines, we don't need much of an excuse to raid the shelves of our local wine suppliers. Over the last few evenings we have sampled three delightful examples thinking about the recent and very sad passing of John Radford, a lover of all things Spanish and a great sherry enthusiast. We hope he would approve.

The first was a long-standing favourite Fino from Gonzales Byas, Tio Pepe. Pale-coloured, lovely fresh nose, wonderfully crisp and refreshing and long on the palate. A joy of an aperitif and just right to pep up the appetite.

The second, a Dry Oloroso, one of the Waitrose range of Lustau sherries, was a lovely dark bronze that shone in the glass. A bit of peach and apricot on the nose, then rich dried fig and prune on the palate ending with burnt caramel flavours but without the sweetness.  A lovely long dry finish.

The third, another from the Waitrose Lustau range, a Dry Amontillado. Slightly paler than the Oloroso but lovely rich nose and palate. Nutty with a touch of caramel, this had terrific length and a wonderfully austere dry finish. 

The Tio Pepe at £9.99 from Sainsbury's and the Waitrose Sherries at £8.99 each are stunning value. Difficult to find any other wine of such quality for under £10.

All three were superb but we both voted the Dry Amontillado as our overall favourite.  Glad we have some left for this evening!