Sherry: Viticulture and vine varieties

In the 19th century, a variety of different vines were planted around Jerez but, after phylloxera wiped out most of the vineyards in the 1890s, many varieties were never replanted. Only three varieties are now authorized for new vineyards in Jerez: palomino, pedro ximénez, and muscat of alexandria. Of these, Palomino is the most important and accounts for around 95% of the total vineyard area. There are in fact two types of Palomino: Palomino Basto (also known as the Palomino de Jerez) and Palomino Fino. Palomino Basto has largely been supplanted by Palomino Fino, which provides better yields and is more resistant to disease. Palomino Fino has proved to be a particularly versatile grape and is used for most types of sherry.