Pedro Ximénez El Candado
Valdespino D.O. Jerez-Xérès-Sherry 750ml
"Jerez’s most treasured sweetness: an oenological jewel of traditional sun-drying and prolonged aging that dazzles with its density and limitless complexity."
Valdespino's Sweet Secret
Pedro Ximénez El Candado 750ml from the iconic Valdespino winery is one of the greatest benchmarks in the world of sweet fortified wines, perfect for those looking to buy premium Jerez wine online. Crafted with 100% Pedro Ximénez grapes subjected to the traditional "soleo" process (sun-drying on the Jerez estates), this wine achieves a unique syrupy density. It then undergoes oxidative aging for over 10 years using the Criaderas y Soleras system, giving rise to a legendary, deep, and unctuous beverage that pays homage to the legend of the padlock that protected the winery’s most coveted casks.
1. Identity Profile
- Commercial Name: Pedro Ximénez El Candado 750ml
- Winery: Valdespino (Grupo Estévez)
- Denomination of Origin: D.O. Jerez-Xérès-Sherry
- Varietal: 100% Pedro Ximénez
- Aging System: Soleras y Criaderas (Avg. age 10 years)
- Alcohol Content: 17% Vol.
- Volume: 750 ml
- SKU: VAL-PX-ELCANDADO-750ML
2. Sommelier Notes
Appearance: Very dense dark mahogany color, with wide, slow-moving legs displaying iodine and jet-black highlights.
Nose: Intense aromas of raisins, dried figs, dates, and ripe plums, combined with notes of roasted coffee, pure cocoa, licorice, and noble wood.
Palate: Unctuous, velvety, and with an enveloping texture. It offers a natural sweetness balanced by a fresh acidity that prevents any cloying sensation. Extremely long and persistent finish.
3. Style and Uniqueness
NATURAL SWEETNESS (SUN-DRYING) [ ● ● ● ● ● ]
DENSITY AND UNCTUOUSNESS [ ● ● ● ● ● ]
OXIDATIVE COMPLEXITY [ ● ● ● ● ○ ]
AGING POTENTIAL [ UNLIMITED ]
4. The Art of Serving
Pairing: Ideal for drizzling directly over vanilla ice cream, dark chocolate desserts, Tarta de Santiago, or puff pastries. Exquisite contrast with blue cheeses such as Cabrales, Gorgonzola, or Roquefort.
Recommended Glassware: Traditional sherry glass or a fine tasting glass.
Temperature: Serve chilled, between 12°C and 14°C.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why does the bottle have a real padlock on its neck?
Tradition says that a winery foreman placed a padlock with a key on the cask to prevent workers from secretly drinking this highly prized wine. Today, each bottle includes a small padlock and its corresponding key as a distinguishing seal.
What is the aging time for this Pedro Ximénez?
El Candado undergoes an average of 10 years of aging using the traditional Jerez Criaderas y Soleras system, acquiring a great concentration of aromas, unctuousness, and balance.
How should this sweet fortified wine be served and stored?
It is recommended to serve it chilled, between 12°C and 14°C. Thanks to its alcohol content and sugar concentration, once opened, the bottle remains in perfect condition for months.