盧斯陶洛斯阿科斯阿蒙蒂拉多 NV

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1896 by Don José Ruiz-Berdejo in Jerez de la Frontera, Bodegas Lustau began as a small almacenista, aging sherries for larger producers. In the mid-20th century, Lustau transitioned to bottling its own wines, gaining international acclaim for its commitment to quality and innovation. Today, Lustau is renowned for its diverse range of sherries, combining traditional methods with modern techniques to produce exceptional wines that reflect the rich heritage of the Jerez region.

Producer and Winemaker

Lustau’s winemaking team, led by Cellar Master Sergio Martínez, meticulously oversees the production of their sherries. Martínez, who has been with Lustau since 2003, ensures that each wine maintains the house’s signature style—elegant, balanced, and expressive. Under his guidance, Lustau has received numerous accolades, solidifying its reputation as a leading sherry producer.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The Palomino grapes used for Amontillado Los Arcos are sourced from Lustau’s vineyards in the Jerez region, characterized by its albariza soils—white, chalky earth that retains moisture and reflects sunlight. The region’s warm climate, tempered by Atlantic breezes, provides ideal conditions for grape cultivation. These factors contribute to the grapes’ balanced acidity and sugar levels, essential for producing high-quality sherry.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Amontillado Los Arcos is crafted from 100% Palomino grapes. The wine undergoes biological aging under a layer of flor yeast for several years, followed by oxidative aging in contact with air. This dual aging process occurs in American oak casks using the traditional solera and criaderas system in Lustau’s Bodega Emperatriz Eugenia in Jerez de la Frontera. The result is a complex sherry with both the freshness of a Fino and the richness of an Oloroso.

Tasting Notes

Amontillado Los Arcos displays an amber hue with golden highlights. The nose offers pronounced aromas of hazelnuts, toffee, and dried fruits. On the palate, it is dry, light, and round, featuring flavors of salted caramel, lemon pith, and a hint of burnt sugar. The wine’s medium-plus acidity and long, dry finish make it a quintessential example of classic Amontillado sherry. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This versatile sherry pairs excellently with a variety of dishes. Its nutty and savory profile complements artichokes, consommés, cold and smoked meats, and rich-flavored fish dishes. It also harmonizes well with spicy Asian cuisine, making it an ideal choice for diverse culinary experiences. 

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its aromatic nuances and structural balance, serve Amontillado Los Arcos slightly chilled, between 13–14°C (55–57°F). Using a white wine glass will allow the sherry to express its full bouquet. It can be enjoyed neat as an aperitif or paired with food as described above.

Storage and Aging Potential

While Amontillado Los Arcos 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. Once opened, it maintains its quality for up to two weeks when refrigerated.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Palomino

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

18.5%

Scores

• Wine Enthusiast: 89 points

• Decanter World Wine Awards: 89 points (Bronze Medal, 2017)

• Wine Advocate: 90 points

• Natalie MacLean: 90 points