Pedro Ximenez, often abbreviated to PX, is a unique grape variety, primarily cultivated in the sunbaked vineyards of Spain's Andalusia region. Its special character comes from the traditional sun-drying method, where harvested grapes are laid out under the scorching sun to increase sugar concentration through dehydration, giving it its iconic sweetness.
This grape variety is the backbone of some of the world's most celebrated dessert wines, notably those from the Jerez and Montilla-Moriles regions. The result is a dark, almost opaque wine, redolent with flavors of figs, raisins, molasses, and often chocolate, making it a natural pairing for a range of desserts or even as a dessert on its own.
Ageing in the solera system, where wines of different years are blended over time, imparts an added layer of complexity. Some Pedro Ximenez wines are aged for decades, absorbing the rich history of the region and the nuances of the barrels they mature in. When poured, its viscous nature hints at the deep, layered experience that awaits. With every sip, one is transported to a world where tradition meets perfection, and the richness of the past is tasted in the present. It's not just a wine; it's a testament to centuries of Spanish viticultural tradition.
Pedro Ximenez, often abbreviated as PX, is a white grape variety primarily known for its role in the winemaking regions of Spain, especially in the production of sweet, rich sherry wines in Jerez. The grape is sun-dried into raisins before being pressed, resulting in a highly concentrated, lusciously sweet must. This method imparts the wine with intense flavors of dried fruits, molasses, and caramel. While primarily renowned for its sweet wines, Pedro Ximenez can also be found in the form of dry table wines, showcasing its versatile nature.
The most popular Pedro Ximenez wines typically hail from the Jerez and Montilla-Moriles regions of Spain. These wines, known for their decadently sweet profile, often bear labels of well-respected producers like Alvear, Gonzalez Byass, and Lustau. Aging plays a crucial role, with aged PX sherries deepening in color, complexity, and sweetness. Vintages labeled as "Solera" or those with specific age statements like "30 years old" have particularly garnered acclaim among aficionados and critics alike.
The best Pedro Ximenez wines are often those that have undergone extended aging, intensifying their flavors and richness. Top-tier producers from Jerez and Montilla-Moriles, such as Fernando de Castilla and Bodegas Toro Albala, release exceptional bottles, with some dating back decades. Their offerings stand out for their complexity, featuring layered notes of figs, dates, chocolate, and coffee.
The price of Pedro Ximenez wines can vary considerably. Younger bottles are often more affordable, offering a sweet indulgence without breaking the bank. However, rare, extensively aged versions or those from prestigious producers can command higher prices, reflecting their uniqueness and the intricate process of their creation. Collectors and enthusiasts may deem these top-tier bottles as worthy investments.
Pedro Ximenez wines, with their profound sweetness, are a dessert in themselves. However, they shine exceptionally well when paired with blue cheeses, dark chocolate, or rich desserts like sticky toffee pudding and crème brûlée. The wine's raisin-like sweetness also beautifully complements savory dishes, making it a delightful accompaniment to foie gras or even slow-cooked meats with sweet sauces. Its versatility in pairings is a testament to its nuanced profile.
We aim to have all wines be vintage specific. In the case the listed vintage is out of stock and you note you would like that particular vintage, we will inform you via email for approval to go ahead.
Delivery Times
To be able to supply such a unique & extensive range of boutique wines, we don't hold much of the inventory. So with us, there is the added step of receiving the wine from our local suppliers before it is dispatched to you. Most orders are dispatched within 3-6 working days.
Quality Guarantee
Replacement or refund offered if bottles are faulty or damaged. All our deliveries are insured against loss, however you must notify us in a reasonable amount of time.
Sending a Gift
If you would like to include a gift message with your order, please enter that in the order instructions section. We'll print your message in a lovely font on A5 paper. We also won't include the invoice. Tracking will be sent to the email on file.
We aim to have all wines be vintage specific. In the case the listed vintage is out of stock and you note you would like that particular vintage, we will inform you via email for approval to go ahead.
To be able to supply such a unique & extensive range of boutique wines, we don't hold much of the inventory. So with us, there is the added step of receiving the wine from our local suppliers before it is dispatched to you. Most orders are dispatched within 3-6 working days.
Replacement or refund offered if bottles are faulty or damaged. All our deliveries are insured against loss, however you must notify us in a reasonable amount of time.
If you would like to include a gift message with your order, please enter that in the order instructions section. We'll print your message in a lovely font on A5 paper. We also won't include the invoice. Tracking will be sent to the email on file.