There are no men in suits or English speaking guides. No video to watch, or gift shop to visit. In fact, the very humble, charmingly decrepit bodega just expanded beyond the small cellar as they slowly added new space for more fermentation tanks and even…a…bathroom. José “Pepe” Blanco and his brother Francisco “Paco” Blanco started the Callejuela winery in1980 They were Almacenistas making base wine from their own Palomino vineyards that they sold to the local bodegas of Sanlúcar. Throughout decades, their father, a prominent local viticulturist, increased his hectares by slowly buying small parcels. In 1998 they created the brand Viña Callejuela, and in 2015 they expanded the brand by releasing their Blanquito Manzanilla Pasada, La Casilla Amontillado y El Cerro Oloroso, their extensively aged generoso wines, as well as single vineyard, single vintage, "vinos estáticos" Manzanillas From the pago Callejuela, to the North East of Sanlúcar. This is influenced by the river but is nonetheless located at a high altitude for this pago. Chamomile, and a little brioche bread. Traces of Manzanilla indeed, but not quite. Traces of white fruits and minerals underneath. Rather dry with medium acidity. After the slightly funky nose, this has the juiciest mouthfeel. Very light briney notes and an earthy touch. Hints of seaweed and umami notes towards the end.
