Palomino, actually noted in full as Palomino Fino to avoid confusion with Palomino Negra, is a very long-established grape variety in Andalusia, where it is primarily responsible for the production of almost all sherry styles. It has adapted excellently to the warm conditions of southern Spain and is well-armed against heat and strong sunlight and, with its thick berry skins, also against rot. Palomino is moderately susceptible to downy mildew and anthracnose. The time of harvest plays a very important role, as Palomino tends to break down acid quickly as it ripens. Around 10,000 hectares still exist in southern Spain, the lion's share of which goes into the production of sherry. There are also over 3,000 hectares of Palomino in the north of Portugal under the name Malvasia Rei, preferably in the Douro Valley, where it is used in the production of port wines as well as in the production of light still wines. There are also a few hundred hectares in California, Argentina, Australia and South Africa. Without being fortified and specially developed, as is the case in the region of sherry or port wine, Palomino is a rather neutral wine with low alcohol and very moderate acidity.
This grape variety is also known by the name of:
Albán, Albar, Fransdruif, Jerez, Jerez Fina, Listán, Listán blanco, Listán de Jerez, Palomino Fino, White French, Xeres
