El Candado
Pedro Ximénez • Valdespino
"The sweet treasure of Jerez: a velvet-textured nectar that captures the essence of the Andalusian sun, literally guarded by its iconic real padlock."
Sun-Dried Nectar
Valdespino uses the ancient asoleo (sun-drying) technique 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 oenological jewel of extreme density and sublime balance, world-famous for the physical padlock and key that accompany every bottle.
1. Identity Profile
- Winery: Valdespino (Grupo Estévez).
- Origin: Jerez de la Frontera, Spain.
- Varietal: 100% Pedro Ximénez.
- Aging: 10-Year Solera.
- Alcohol: 17% ABV.
- Presentation: 750 ml.
2. Sommelier Notes
Appearance:
Dark mahogany color, almost opaque and impenetrable, with very dense legs that stain the glass.
Nose:
Aromatic explosion of raisins, dried figs, dates, licorice, roasted 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 Uniqueness
SWEETNESS / INTENSITY [ ● ● ● ● ● ]
BODY / DENSITY [ ● ● ● ● ● ]
SOLERA AGING [ ● ● ● ● ○ ]
FINISH PERSISTENCE [ ● ● ● ● ● ]
4. The Art of Serving
Desserts: The ultimate companion for vanilla ice cream, nut-based pastries, or dark chocolate truffles.
Contrasts: Surprising with bold blue cheeses such as Cabrales, Roquefort, or Gorgonzola.
Service: Recommended at 12°C to 14°C (54°F - 57°F). Once opened, its high concentration allows it to be kept in perfect condition for months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the bottle have a real padlock?
It is a historical Valdespino tradition to symbolize that the content is so valuable that it must be safeguarded. Each bottle includes its own key.
What is the asoleo process?
It consists of exposing the grapes directly to the sun on esparto grass mats so they raisin, concentrating the 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.