El Candado
Pedro Ximénez • Valdespino
"The sweet treasure of Jerez: a velvety-textured nectar that captures the essence of the Andalusian sun, literally safeguarded by its iconic real padlock."
Sun-Dried Nectar
Valdespino uses the ancient technique of **sun-drying** to raisinify Pedro Ximénez grapes, naturally concentrating sugars under the Cadiz sun. With an **average age of 10 years** in the traditional Criaderas and Soleras system, El Candado is an enological jewel of extreme density and sublime balance, globally famous for the physical padlock and key that accompany each bottle.
1. Identity Profile
- Winery: Valdespino (Estévez Group).
- 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 very dense tears 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 natural acidity that prevents heaviness, with an endless finish.
3. Style and Uniqueness
SWEETNESS / INTENSITY [ ● ● ● ● ● ]
BODY / DENSITY [ ● ● ● ● ● ]
SOLERA AGING [ ● ● ● ● ○ ]
FINAL PERSISTENCE [ ● ● ● ● ● ]
4. The Art of Serving
Desserts: The ultimate accompaniment 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 it must be safeguarded. Each bottle includes its own key.
What is the sun-drying process?
It involves exposing the grapes directly to the sun on esparto mats to raisinify them, 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 sun-drying.