El Candado
Pedro Ximénez • Valdespino
"The sweet treasure of Jerez: a nectar with a velvety texture that captures the essence of the Andalusian sun, literally guarded by its iconic royal padlock."
Sun-Dried Nectar
Valdespino uses the ancient technique of **asoleo** (sun-drying) to raisin the Pedro Ximénez grapes, naturally concentrating sugars under the Cadiz sun. With an **average age of 10 years** in the traditional Criaderas y Soleras system, El Candado is an enological jewel of extreme density and sublime balance, world-famous for the physical padlock and key that accompany each bottle.
1. Identity Profile
- Winery: Valdespino (Grupo Estévez).
- Origin: Jerez de la Frontera, Spain.
- Varietal: 100% Pedro Ximénez.
- Aging: 10-Year Solera.
- Alcohol Content: 17% Alc. Vol.
- Presentation: 750 ml.
2. Sommelier's Notes
Appearance: Dark mahogany color, almost opaque and impenetrable, with a very dense tear that stains the glass.
Nose: Aromatic explosion of raisins, dried figs, dates, licorice, toasted coffee, and notes of pure cocoa.
Palate: Voluptuous and syrupy entry. Its sweetness is masterfully balanced by a natural acidity that prevents heaviness, with an endless finish.
3. Style and Singularity
SWEETNESS / INTENSITY [ ● ● ● ● ● ]
BODY / DENSITY [ ● ● ● ● ● ]
SOLERA AGING [ ● ● ● ● ○ ]
FINAL PERSISTENCE [ ● ● ● ● ● ]
4. The Art of Serving
Desserts: The ultimate companion for vanilla ice cream, pastries with nuts, or dark chocolate truffles.
Contrasts: Surprising with strong blue cheeses like Cabrales, Roquefort, or Gorgonzola.
Serving: Recommended between **12°C and 14°C**. Once opened, its high concentration allows it to be stored for months in perfect condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the bottle have a real padlock?
It is a historical tradition of Valdespino to symbolize that the content is so valuable that it must be guarded. Each bottle includes its own key.
What is the asoleo process?
It involves exposing the grapes to the sun directly on esparto mats so that they raisin, concentrating sugar and aromas before fermentation.
Does it contain added sugars?
No. All the sweetness of El Candado comes exclusively from the natural sugar of the grape concentrated during the asoleo process.
