Valdespino VORS Palo Cortado ‘Cardenal’

Valdespino Palo Cortado 'Cardenal' V.O.R.S.

Producer: Valdespino
Region: Jerez, Andalucía, Spain
Country: Spain
Type: Dry fortified wine – Palo Cortado
Grape: 100% Palomino Fino
Vineyard: Macharnudo Alto
Aging System: Solera originating from Fino Inocente and Amontillado Tío Diego
Estimated Average Age: 50–60 years
Classification: V.O.R.S. – Vinum Optimum Rare Signatum (legal minimum: 30 years)
Alcohol: 21%
Score: 99 points – Robert Parker (previous editions)

Description

A truly stratospheric wine, the Palo Cortado ‘Cardenal’ V.O.R.S. is one of the crown jewels of Valdespino, a house revered as the most traditional and uncompromising in Jerez. With viticultural origins dating back to 1264 and some of the most extraordinary vineyard holdings in the region, Valdespino stands as the guardian of Jerez’s greatest heritage.

The Cardenal is sourced from the Macharnudo Alto vineyard, considered the Grand Cru of Jerez. The wine begins life in the soleras of Fino Inocente and Amontillado Tío Diego, where the most elegant and structured barrels from the ninth criadera are selected. After fortification to 18% (halting flor development), the wine is transferred to the legendary Palo Cortado Viejo CP solera, where it undergoes a profound oxidative aging process over 50 to 60 years.

The result is a Palo Cortado of ethereal texture, monumental structure and cutting mineral tension, with a complexity that defies conventional descriptors. Expect aromas of walnut skin, exotic woods, fine spices and varnish, with iodine, roasted almonds and salinity echoing across a finish that feels almost eternal.

99 Points – Robert Parker
"A reference-point Palo Cortado. Layered, penetrating, deeply complex. A legend in the making."

Suggested Pairings

• Jamón Ibérico de bellota

• Aged hard cheeses (Manchego, Comté)

• Grilled langoustines or scallops

• Sautéed wild mushrooms

• As a meditation wine — to be contemplated, not merely consumed