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 1988 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+
Learn more about Toro Albala
Learn more about Pedro Ximenez
Reviews
91-93 Points Wine Advocate by Robert Parker
Tasting old sweet PX from Toro Albalá is like a roller coaster ride, which started with the 1988 Don PX Gran Reserva, what for them is their more commercial range, a wine that at close to 30 years of age is still unbottled. They compared it with the 1981 (which I never tasted), because it was a warm year with an exceptional harvest. It has 16.4% alcohol, 340 grams of residual sugar and mixes notes of youth, raisins, figs and dates with other aromas of a long aging like tar, graphite, chocolate and licorice. It doesn't feel too sweet but compared with the other wines tasted next to it, it doesn't have the complexity or depth. They expect to produce 25,200 bottles and 36,000 half bottles of this. Luis Gutiérrez 2022