Bodegas Rey Fernando de Castilla is located in the historic centre of Jerez. Its story began with the aristocratic Andrada-Vanderwilde family, who for two centuries provided grapes and wine for the production of sherry in the area. In 1972 Fernando Andrada-Vanderwilde took over some old sherry cellars and brandy soleras from a couple of local bodegas, and changed the name of the company from Fernando III to Fernando de Castilla.

In 1999 Jan Pettersen, a Norwegian with 15 years experience at Osborne, bought the company and also acquired a neighbouring almacenista, José Bustamente. He also formed a partnership with a local grape grower - to ensure consistent supply of high quality grapes - unusual for the smaller bodegas, who usually have to rely on co-operatives. He decided to focus entirely on high-end, complex sherries - in the process upgrading the bodega to one of the most interesting and highly regarded of the small independent sherry houses in Jerez.

Whilst the company also produces Sherry Vinegar, and their own range of brandies, the Sherries produced here are amongst the finest in Jerez - from the pale, dry and elegant fino to the most unique antique wines.

Jerez was an important region for the production of vermouth (vermut) but this died out in the late 1960s. Fernando de Castilla were a registered vermut producer - so fast-forward 50 years to when it's once again popular (both in Spanish and UK bars) and they have brought Vermut back to life! Produced from Palomimo and Pedro Ximenez grapes. The grapes are pressed and fermented in stainless steel, and then aged in barrel for around 8 years.

Serve as an aperitif - over ice with a slice of orange and soda. Alternatively use in cocktails such as the classic Negroni, or Manhattan.