Delicate blend of forest fruit, marmalades of plum and cherry and a smoky finish. Producer Information Jerez de la Frontera dates from Phoenician times, but first rose to prominence under the Moors, who called it Xerix or Sherrich De la Frontera. These names refer to Jerezs position on the frontier of Moorish Spain, and the Alcazar (fortress) is a reminder of the towns strategic importance. The real urban development of Jerez began in Moslem times, during the Almoravide and Almohade periods when mosques and palaces were built and the town was extended dramatically. In the 12 th century the Christians tried on several occasions to capture the city but, for a long period after these failed attempts, Jerez remained a Moorish border town. The eventual re-conquest under Alphonse X saw mosques converted to churches. However, many reminders of Moorish Spain remain in Jerez, including the alc zar, the 12 th century Almohad fortress with the Capilla Santa Mara la Real , the Chapel of Santa Mara la Real and the Baos Arabes, Arab baths. In the Archaelogical Museum you can see a collection of 7 th century BC Greek helmets found in the Ro Guadalete. On Plaza del Arenal stands one of Jerezs loveliest churches, the 16 th century Iglesia de San Miguel, built in Isabelline Gothic style and boasting some beautiful stained - glass windows. The 19 th century was a period of economic prosperity for Jerez, thanks to a partnership with English exporters and wine merchants launching the success story that the Jerez sherry industry is today.
