In Jerez, where the sun warms the sherry casks, the house of Ximénez-Spínola makes a brandy using only the Pedro Ximénez grape, the very same grape used for the district's sweetest sherries. The result is a brandy with a roundness rarely found outside the region.
Expert's Description
Bodegas Pedro Ximenez-Spinola Solera Danesa is a Spanish Brandy, bottled at 42%.
The house of Ximénez-Spínola in Jerez is known for going against the grain: while most Jerez producers work with several grape varieties, this house focuses solely on Pedro Ximénez and has made it its trademark. That focus carries through into the brandy, where the grape's natural roundness and sweet depth take the lead role.
The brandy is aged using the Solera method in former sherry casks, where younger and older vintages are continuously blended through a series of barrels. The name Solera Danesa refers to a particular ageing row in the house's cellars, originally assembled with the Danish market in mind.
The long contact with sherry-seasoned wood adds notes of dried fruit, nuts and spice that support the grape's natural sweetness without overwhelming it.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Dried raisins, walnut and a hint of spiced sherry.
Palate
Round and sweet, with deep fruitiness and an almost creamy texture.
Finish
Long and warm, with lingering notes of dried fig and light oak.
Specifications
Name: Bodegas Pedro Ximenez-Spinola Solera Danesa
Distillery: Ximénez-Spínola
Country: Spain
Type: Spanish Brandy
ABV: 42%
Size: 70 CL
Cask type: Sherry Cask, Solera
Serving suggestion: Enjoy after the meal, alone or with dark chocolate
Flavour Profile
Raisin · Walnut · Dried Fig · Sherry
Did You Know?
Ximénez-Spínola uses only the Pedro Ximénez grape across its entire range, making it a rarity in Jerez, where most producers typically work with several different grape varieties in their brandy and sherry.
