NV Valdespino - Pedro Ximenez Jerez El Candado (750ml)

Valdespino ranks among the oldest bodegas in Jerez, with roots tracing to 1264, when King Alfonso X granted land in the region to the knight Alfonso Valdespino for his role in reclaiming the city from Moorish rule. The firm's commercial activity is documented as early as 1430, and it was formally incorporated in 1875, remaining in family hands until Grupo Estévez acquired it in 1999. Valdespino draws its fruit largely from its own vineyards in the prized Macharnudo pago, a rare practice among sherry houses that gives it close control over quality across its range.

This Pedro Ximénez is made from grapes left to dry in the sun for roughly two weeks, concentrating their sugars before pressing. The must ferments naturally in stainless steel, and the finished wine is then aged through a solera system averaging eight to ten years, deepening its color and building layers of flavor over time. The bottle takes its name, El Candado, meaning padlock, from an old tradition of physically locking away the finest soleras from casual sampling.

Mahogany in color, the wine offers a dense nose of raisins, dried figs, and dates, with hints of coffee and licorice. The palate is unctuous and sweet, showing notes of molasses and toasted walnut alongside a long, warming finish. It makes a natural match for aged blue cheese, dark chocolate, or a simple bowl of vanilla ice cream.