Ximénez-Spínola Pedro Ximénez Muy Viejo

Ximénez-Spínola is one of the oldest estates in the Jerez de la Frontera area of Cádiz, in the D.O. Jerez-Xérès-Sherry, with references back to 1726 and now in its ninth generation. It is unusual in working exclusively with Pedro Ximénez and releasing only small quantities. The grapes grow on the chalky albariza soils of the region, which reflect the strong Andalusian sun and hold deep moisture for the dry summers. To make this style the grapes are laid out in the sun to dry after picking, a process that dehydrates the berries and concentrates their sugar to extreme levels before a slow pressing. Long oxidative ageing in old oak then builds the dark, raisined depth typical of a very old Pedro Ximénez, with slow exposure to air deepening the colour and adding roasted and toffee character. The colour is dense, almost black mahogany. The nose is intense, with roasted coffee and dark chocolate over dried fig and date. The palate is smooth and viscous, the dehydrated grape sweetness dominant, edged with molasses and roasted oak. Serve cool at around 13C in a small glass.