Aside from the amazing
tocino del cielo, Jerez is also known for its sherry production. Sherry is fortified wine from white grapes grown in this Andalucian province. Naturally, Jerez is home to over 20 sherry bodegaas.
The most famous bodega is Bodegas González Byass, also known as
Bodegas Tio Pepe. It is one of the biggest sherry houses, just next to the Alcázar and Cathedral. Their sherry production opened in 1835 by Manuel María González Angel, who partnered with Robert Blake Byass. The infamous sherry, Tio Pepe, was named after his favorite uncle and advisor, Tio Pepe. The bodega opened in 1963 and has expanded over the years. Today the company is run by 4th and 5th generation González family members.
The best way to learn about this bodega and the process of sherry production is by taking their tour. There are several tours throughout the day in English, Spanish, German, and French. Reservations can be made online and you pay when you get there. The tours include 2 to 4 tastes of sherry and an option for tapas with your tasting. It's only 18.50 Euro for 4 tastings and tapas. It's worth it, and the sherry buzz you get afterwards is fun.
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| Tio Pepe Statue |
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| Outside Bodegas Tio Pepe/Bodegas Gonzalez Byass |
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| Ticket to tour, and drink! |
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| The entrance and start of the tour |
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| Inside the welcome reception area |
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| Touring around the property |
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| Barrels displaying Tio Pepe's worldwide reach |
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| Including the Philippines! |
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| Map of their vineyards |
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| Anticipating the harvest |
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| Barrels and barrels |
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| Taking a train ride around the property |
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| A little sample of their grapes |
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| Prepping barrels for storage |
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| The image of Tio Pepe |
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| New and old working together |
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| Venues for special events |
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| A perfect place for a celebration |
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| The old storage room |
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| Barrels signed by the royal family |
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| And even the king himself |
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| Countless barrels signed by famous personalities. Sir Winston Churchill |
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| Pablo Picasso |
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| And even Steven Spielberg |
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| Walking around the beautiful grounds |
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| The tasting building |
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| Spacious and modern |
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| A perfect end to the tour! Salud! |
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