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The Gentleman of Jerez
Beltrán Domecq is a name that resonates deeply within the world of Sherry, a man who has dedicated his life to elevating this iconic Spanish wine. Born (1946) and raised in Jerez, he was practically surrounded by the traditions of winemaking from a young age. His deep connection to the region’s winemaking culture runs through his veins. With a background in chemistry and enology, Beltrán combines scientific knowledge with a true passion for his craft, making him one of the leading experts in the world of Jerez.
For eight years, Beltrán served as the president of the Consejo Regulador del Vino de Jerez, Manzanilla de Sanlúcar de Barrameda y Vinagre de Jerez, an organization responsible for overseeing the production and quality of Jerez. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in promoting the wine and boosting its global presence. His efforts to raise awareness about Jerez and its versatility have been central to its recent resurgence.
One of his key achievements was the launch of the "Sherry Educator" program, which helped train wine professionals from over 12 countries, turning them into passionate advocates for the drink. This initiative played a crucial role in changing the perception of Jerez from a niche drink to a sought-after choice for wine lovers and chefs around the world
"Jerez is the oldest wine in the world, and yet it's very contemporary.” - Beltrán Domecq to Diario de Sevilla
Delving into the mysteries of Jerez
But Beltrán’s influence doesn’t stop there. He is also a prolific author and his book, El Jerez y sus Misterios (Jerez and its mysteries), is considered a definitive guide to Jerez. The book delves into its fascinating history, the detailed process of production, and the nuances of tasting this rich and complex wine. His work is a tribute to his lifelong passion for Jerez, and it offers both wine enthusiasts and professionals a deeper understanding of the art of making Jerez.
"We need to break with orthodoxy so that young people start drinking Jerez.” - Beltrán Domecq to El País
Even after stepping down from his official role in 2020, Beltrán continues to play a significant role in the Jerez world. He remains an influential advisor to several bodegas and works tirelessly to promote Jerez through various initiatives and platforms. His legacy is not only in the wines he helped shape but also in his contribution to the global appreciation of Jerez as a drink that beautifully pairs with food, celebrating Spain’s gastronomic culture in the process.
Beltrán Domecq’s work has truly transformed Jerez from a traditional regional wine into a global treasure that reflects the rich heritage and craftsmanship of this unique wine.