As a sommelier swirls Covadonga Oloroso V.O.R.S in a glass, the wine emanates an opulence that is both majestic and intriguing. At first whiff, one is captivated by the fragrant symphony of plums and apricots, entwined with polished oak and exotic spices. Whiffs of wax candles, soft tobacco, and used leather make their presence felt in the background, adding profundity to the olfactory festivities. Upon sipping, the wine unravels its opulent persona with a surprising salty tang countered flawlessly by vivid acidity. Seeping onto the palate are the whispers of nuts and chocolate, cradling tastebuds in a velvety texture while imparting a hint of sweetness from the chocolate. As the tasting proceeds, the wine’s flavor playground becomes more vibrant, with tobacco, bitter orange peel, and grapefruit jostling to be tasted. One cannot ignore the wine’s extravagantly smooth and velvety texture, a trait that slips onto the palate as effortlessly as secrets spill from a confessional.
### Pairings & Suggestions
Reflecting the grandeur of centuries-old winemaking traditions, Covadonga Oloroso V.O.R.S comes from Bodegas Tradicion, a relatively young but highly respected Spanish bodega. Owing its existence to the meticulous selection of old stocks procured from defunct sherry houses, Covadonga is a testament to the craftsmen who sought to preserve the taste of antiquity. The wine’s solera, humorously named ‘Covadonga’, honors the original cellar master from Covadonga, Asturias, famous for crafting the finest Oloroso for Marqués de Real Tesoro. The slow creation of a 28-butt solera from the top Oloroso butts testifies to the wine’s complexity and depth of experience. Today, Covadonga Oloroso V.O.R.S continues to be sipped and celebrated in distinguished circles, having found a place in the elite wine lists of culinary temples like El Bulli and The Fat Duck.
Store Covadonga Oloroso V.O.R.S in a cool place, well-protected from direct sunlight and heat fluctuations. Keep it in a horizontal position, particularly if it has a natural cork closure, to keep the cork moist. Post-opening, the wine should ideally be consumed within a few weeks, ensuring it’s re-corked tightly after each use.