Manzanilla's Spring "Flor" 2013

“The rain in Spain falls mainly…….” in the south?  Not quite what Profession Higgins tried to teach Eliza Doolittle, but it certainly represents the strange truth of this year’s weather.  It has rained more this winter than it normally does in three years.  As well, it was a very mild winter temperature wise.  So a very rainy March along with a soft, rainy winter makes for some seriously thick “flor.”  Now, in the Springtime the “flor” is always thick, as the softer temperatures and the rain create the perfect atmosphere for the “flor” to prosper.  With the additional rain, the humidity is more constant and the “flor” grows thicker.  The thicker the “flor” the greater the protection from the oxygen and the more refined the color will be.  As well, the breadiness on the mouth also comes from the “flor,” those flavors should also be more pronounced this Spring.  These conditions are very similar to what we experienced this past fall – both unusually wet and mild.  So we should see similarities in the taste and texture of the wines.

So here’s a great recipe for the spring with clams:

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Almejas a la Marinera