Lustau Palo Cortado 半島 Serry Solera Rva NV

Winery Background and History

Established in 1896 by Don José Ruiz-Berdejo, Bodegas Lustau began as a small family-owned 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 sherries are crafted under the expertise of their dedicated team of enologists and cellar masters, who oversee the meticulous aging process. The production involves selecting high-quality Palomino grapes, fermenting them, and aging the wine 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 wines that reflect the character of Jerez.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The Palomino grapes used for Lustau’s sherries are sourced from vineyards in the Jerez region of Spain, known for its unique albariza soils and warm, sunny climate tempered by Atlantic breezes. This climate contributes to the grapes’ balanced sugar and acidity levels, ideal for sherry production. The aging process occurs in Jerez de la Frontera, where the microclimate provides the perfect conditions for maturation in sherry-seasoned casks.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The Palo Cortado Península is produced from 100% Palomino grapes. After fermentation, the wine is aged for an average of 12 years in American oak casks using the traditional solera and criaderas system in the Bodega la Emperatriz Eugenia in Jerez de la Frontera. This method involves a fractional blending process where younger wines are systematically mixed with older ones, ensuring consistency and complexity. The result is a sherry that combines the finesse of an Amontillado with the richness of an Oloroso.

Tasting Notes

The Lustau Palo Cortado Península exhibits a light amber color. 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 sherry is characterized by its depth, balance, and lingering complexity, making it a distinguished example of Palo Cortado.

Food & Wine Pairing

This Palo Cortado 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 Palo Cortado Península at a temperature of 13–14°C (55–57°F). Using a white wine glass will allow the sherry to express its full bouquet. Allowing the wine 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 Palo Cortado Península 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 table wines, sherry 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% Palomino

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

19%

Scores

• Wine Enthusiast: 92 points

• Wine Spectator: 90 points

• Wine Advocate: 96 points

• Robert Parker: 96 points

• James Suckling: 90 points