The Wines and Brandies of Jerez: Tio Pepe and Osborne
Sherry, dry and aromatic is ideal to have as an aperitif or as an accompaniment to some mid-afternoon tapas. Appreciated the world over, this typical Spanish wine is produced in the province of Cadiz, reason enough to visit the famous wineries and bodegas of the region and learn a little more about this liquid gold during your next visit to Jerez, Cadiz or Tarifa.
Tio Pepe, The treasure of González Byass
Tio Pepe, whose name derives from the uncle of one of the brands founders, is the most sold sherry in the world. It is the González Byass company’s emblematic product, the company was founded in 1835 by Manuel Maria González Ángel who later joined with his agent in England, Robert Blake Byass to form the González Byass company.
Tio Pepe is a full flavoured dry sherry that is sold in 110 countries. The icon of Tio Pepe is the bottle topped with a wide brimmed hat and wearing a typical Andalusian short jacket and a Spanish Guitar.
The Tio Pepe wineries can be found in Jerez de la Frontera and are open everyday of the year. Besides strolling through the vines and exploring the barrel maker’s workshop during your visit to the Tio Pepe wineries you can see how some mice drink the sweet wine. Visits which include tasting workshops, flamenco and equestrian shows can also be organised.
The Osborne Bull, A brand icon.
Without distancing ourselves from the world of wine, we move on to Puerto de Santa Mariá to discover another of Cadiz’s biggest brands: Osborne.
Founded in 1772 by the Englishman Thomas Osborne Mann, the Osborne Group is one of the world’s oldest companies. Manufacturing typical Iberian pork products, wines and other alcoholic beverages but the brand is best known for its Brandy, the star products being Magno and Veterano.
The brand’s enduring image are the 14m high black bull shaped billboards which have been found along the roadside throughout Spain since the 50’s. The Osborne Bull over time has become a cultural symbol though not without controversy. Today 91 bulls remain and the majority are in Andalusia.
The Osborne wineries in Puerto de Santa Maria are open to visitors wanting to see the manufacturing process of Brandy and the wines of Jerez. Activities such as tasting and wine pairing workshops plus equestrian shows are also available.
