Lustau Brandy de Jerez Solera Reserva NV 700ml

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1896 by Don José Ruiz-Berdejo, Bodegas Lustau began as a small family-run winery in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain. Initially focused on producing sherry wines, Lustau expanded its portfolio over the years to include a range of fortified wines and brandies. The winery is renowned for its commitment to quality and tradition, utilizing the solera system for aging its products. Today, Lustau is recognized globally for its exceptional sherries and brandies, maintaining a balance between innovation and heritage.

Producer and Winemaker

Lustau’s brandies are crafted under the expertise of their dedicated team of enologists and cellar masters, who oversee the meticulous aging process. The brandy’s production involves selecting high-quality Airén grapes, distilling them, and aging the spirit in seasoned sherry casks. The team’s deep understanding of the solera system and the influence of sherry casks ensures the creation of complex and refined brandies that reflect the character of Jerez.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The Airén grapes used for Lustau’s brandies are sourced from vineyards in the La Mancha region of Spain, known for its continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. This climate contributes to the grapes’ high sugar content, ideal for distillation. The distillate is then transported to Jerez de la Frontera, where the aging process occurs in a unique microclimate influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, providing the perfect conditions for maturation in sherry-seasoned casks.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The brandy is distilled from 100% Airén grapes and aged for over 10 years using the traditional solera system. This method involves a fractional blending process where younger spirits are systematically mixed with older ones, ensuring consistency and complexity. The aging takes place in American oak casks that previously held Oloroso sherry, imparting rich flavors and aromas to the brandy. This meticulous process results in a spirit that embodies the essence of Jerez’s winemaking heritage.

Tasting Notes

The Lustau Solera Gran Reserva Brandy exhibits a mahogany color with golden reflections. On the nose, it offers intense aromas of roasted coffee, tobacco leaf, and nuts. The palate is warm and soft, featuring flavors of dark chocolate and nougat, culminating in a toasty finish. This brandy is characterized by its depth, balance, and lingering complexity, making it a distinguished example of Brandy de Jerez.

Food & Wine Pairing

This brandy pairs excellently with a variety of foods. Its rich and complex profile complements dark chocolate desserts, roasted nuts, and aged cheeses. It also serves as a refined digestif, enhancing the conclusion of a meal. For a traditional pairing, enjoy it alongside Spanish tapas such as jamón ibérico or chorizo, where its depth harmonizes with the savory flavors.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its aromatic nuances and structural balance, serve the Lustau Solera Gran Reserva Brandy at a temperature of 17–18°C (63–64°F). Using a tulip-shaped glass will allow the brandy to express its full bouquet. Allowing the brandy to breathe for a few minutes after pouring can enhance its complexity. It can be enjoyed neat or with a small amount of water to open up its flavors.

Storage and Aging Potential

While the Lustau Solera Gran Reserva Brandy is ready to enjoy upon release, it can be stored for several years without deterioration, provided it is kept upright in a cool, dark place away from temperature fluctuations. Unlike wine, brandy does not significantly improve with bottle aging, but proper storage ensures the preservation of its quality and character over time.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Airén

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

40%