Definition: Oloroso

A full-bodied, vinous variety of sherry, opulently rich, which has not been transformed by the flor, unlike fino, and which is fortified with a dose of brandy. A dry, full-bodied sherry, often used as a base for cream sherries. Oloroso is a type of sherry that undergoes purely physicochemical oxidative ageing, without the aid of a yeast veil, which is what differentiates it from other finos. Often stored for a very long time using the solera system, Oloroso acquires a characteristic and intense rancio flavour, more toasty than Amontillados.