Description
Pedro Ximénez (often abbreviated as PX) is a sweet, fortified wine primarily produced in Spain, especially in the regions of Jerez (Sherry) and Montilla-Moriles. It is made from the Pedro Ximénez grape, which is sun-dried to concentrate its sugars before fermentation. The result is a wine that is intensely sweet, rich, and dark, with a syrupy texture.
Often described as "dessert in a glass," PX wines are bursting with flavors of raisins, molasses, dried figs, caramel, chocolate, and nuts like toasted almonds or hazelnuts. The wine’s sweetness is balanced by its complex and layered profile, making it a luxurious treat for the palate. Its appearance is equally enticing, typically dark brown or black with a glossy, dense consistency that clings to the glass.
There are many ways to enjoy Pedro Ximénez. It can be savored on its own as a dessert or an after-dinner indulgence. It pairs wonderfully with foods like blue cheese, vanilla ice cream, or rich chocolate desserts. Additionally, PX is often used as an ingredient to drizzle over sweets or to enhance sauces, thanks to its thick, syrupy nature.
One of the most interesting aspects of Pedro Ximénez wine is how it achieves its deep, concentrated sweetness. The grapes are dried under the sun in a process called "asoleo," which turns them into raisin-like clusters before they are pressed. This traditional method creates a unique and powerful wine experience that is perfect for special occasions or for those who love rich, sweet flavors. If you’re trying it for the first time, start with a small pour—it’s an indulgence you won’t forget!
The 1987 Don PX from Toro Albala is an extremely concentrated and syrupy wine. Currants, raisins, caramel and orange peel. Same on the palate with some coffee candy as well. A beautifully clean and clear PX with great sweetness, but very nicely balanced by beautiful acidity. Suitable for long ageing. 2040+
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Reviews
***94 Points - Robert Parker***
Each year they select a number of single vintage, sweet PX wines to be bottled, the first of which (besides the young wine) is the 1987 Don Px Gran Reserva in 2016 - a wine aged in American oak casks for some 28 years. These wines are almost indestructible, so the drinking windows are mostly academic. This showcases the classical aromas and palate of an old PX from Montilla, strong notes of dark chocolate, dried figs and plums, raisins and sweet spices; the dense, thick and persistent palate where the 380 grams of unfermented sugar are not noticeable, as they are balanced by good acidity that also gets concentrated by age. This is probably the densest of all the wines I tasted today, and there is a distinct, perfumed, almost floral note here (is it violet pastille?), which makes it extremely attractive. It's also the most drinkable of all these old vintages, very balanced within its sweet profile, with marked flavors (also licorice and black olives) that stay in your mouth for one minute. Exotic and exuberant. This is incredibly young and lively, and very good value for the age and quality it delivers. 52,000 liters bottled in 750- and 375-milliliter bottles.
***Gold Winner - Decanter Wine Awards 2017***
Heady, enticing treacly nose, notes of molasses, dried banana, coffee, figs and walnuts. Immensely concentrated palate, buttery toffee, spice, aniseed and refreshing acidity on leafy long finish.