Bodegas Luis Perez - The Finest Producer of Unfortified Wines in Jerez

There are very few wines that, on first taste, instantly get you thinking about what to eat next. Spanish wines often do that, especially the briny, nutty, chalky delights from Jerez. My second year tasting these wines, and I foresee many more to come. Or hell will break lose. The importer generously let me take the rest of the bottle home as my enthusiasm could not be restrained. As I finish the last glass days later, trying my absolute hardest to make it last longer than a hot minute, I imagine myself beachside in Spain with salty snacks and many more glasses of Luis Perez on order.

These are not sherry. These are dry white unfortified wines of Jerez. Spanish Wine Laws associated with sherry production have recently changed to allow producers to go back to the old way of making wine; making dry white wines. Groundbreaking isn’t it!? These wines are known locally as ‘vino de pasto’, AKA food wines, and have been around since the 1800’s.

Bodega Luis Perez is a family run estate in Jerez that work off single “pagos" (plots) that can express the soil and place, giving distinct, character-filled wines. Second generation Willy (Guillermo) Pérez is leading the way as one of the first producers to dedicate their production to non-fortified wines. And the world wants more! It’s no surprise that it’s working. Barren, chalky white soils, sea spray from the ocean, planted to old vines, the quality of the wines speak for themselves.

On offer today are 2 white wines. The 2024 ‘La Escribana' is a racy, light, dry white made from Palomino. It’s a lot more zesty and linear than previous years, driven by minerality and citrus flavours. It’s utterly delightful and perfect for BBQ fish or artichoke and lemon pasta. Wine Advocate says, “the finest vintage to date”.

The Caberrubia Fino NV Saca IX is a completely different kettle of fish. It has a stunning golden brassy colour, is layered with almond butter and sourdough aromas and your palate salivates with a olive briny salty twang. It’s desperate for anchovies, oysters or a salty hard cheese. 

If you need something to pretend or reminisce back to a Euro Summer, this is it. Or, coincidentally, our best local oysters are in season right now. Head to the markets, order up, and shuck away! 

​To order please click through below.

​​​Cheers