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Think Sherry, think Sandeman - and not just for Christmas
Monday 14th November 2011
From 1619 the Poet Laureate received as payment a “Butt (720 bottles) of Sherry” from the Crown. The custom ceased from around 1790 until 1986 when the Sherry Shippers of Spain revived the custom for Ted Hughes, to mark the centuries old link between Sherry and the United Kingdom and the many references to Sherry in English Literature throughout the ages.
When Carol Ann Duffy became the 22nd Poet Laureate and first woman to hold the title, she was invited to visit the Jerez region of Spain where Sherry is made and to take possession of her barrel of Sherry by signing it - a mark of honour for distinguished visitors. On a second visit she wrote a poem in celebration of this wonderful and versatile drink.
Sherry is so MUCH more than the sweet tipple favoured by maiden aunts at Christmas. Sandeman Sherries come in many different styles - from thrilling, bone-dry Don Fino to sweet, luscious Royal Ambrosante Old Solera Pedro Ximénez. The former makes a delicious, appetite-sharpening apéritif, and the latter is perfect with dessert - especially poured over vanilla ice cream .
There is life way beyond Bristol Cream....
Carol Ann Duffy sniffs, sips, swallows and savours
