We drove to Jerez de la Frontera to attend a performance at the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art. This is a well known institution that teaches the art of dressage, sometimes known as "horse ballet". The school maintains the classical traditions of Spanish baroque horsemanship, preparing horses and riders for international dressage competitions, and providing education in all aspects of horsemanship, coachdriving, blacksmithing, the care and breeding of horses, saddlery, and the manufacture and care of horse harnesses.
The performance is held at an indoor arena on the grounds of the school. Photos are not allowed during the performances so I can't show you what we saw except a quick glance at the end where they did allow cameras. The show was amazing, beautiful, touching.
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| Front of Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art |
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| Scene in grounds of school |
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| Performance arena |
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| Doors where horses and riders enter and exit |
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| Eight horses performed an intricate "ballet" |
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| The horses are exquisite |
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| Storks nesting on a nearby chimney |
We walked from the show to Sandeman Bodegas, one of the premier sherry producers in Spain. Interestingly Sandeman was a Scotsman who was able to create, through good business practices and innovation, a highly successful enterprise. The brand was registered in 1877, making it one of the oldest brands in existence.
The tour consisted of a guide, dressed in the mysterious Sandeman logo outfit, who took us to various points in the winery to discuss how sherry is made. Her English was difficult to understand so I will have to hit Google to get the details. At the end of the tour we were taken to a room to taste the various varieties they produce and as a bonus enjoyed a really good flamenco show complete with guitar, singers and a dancer. All in all it was a good day.
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