Valdespino VOS Oloroso Viejo 'Don Gonzalo'

Valdespino Oloroso Viejo 'Don Gonzalo' V.O.S.

Producer: Valdespino
Region: Jerez, Andalucía, Spain
Country: Spain
Type: Fortified wine – Oxidative Sherry (Oloroso)
Grape: 100% Palomino Fino
Classification: V.O.S. – Vinum Optimum Signatum (average age over 20 years)
Alcohol: 21%

Description

Once described by Luis Gutiérrez (Robert Parker) as the “Domaine de la Romanée-Conti of Jerez”, Valdespino is one of the oldest and most respected names in the Sherry world. The family's winemaking tradition goes back to 1264, and the house remains uncompromising in its dedication to crafting deeply traditional and expressive wines.

The Don Gonzalo V.O.S. is a towering example of Oloroso Sherry, made from Palomino grapes sourced from the prestigious Carrascal vineyard. Fermented in stainless steel and aged oxidatively for over 20 years in oak casks, it is intense, concentrated and richly textured.

This is not a bone-dry wine, but it is firmly oxidative in style. Expect complex aromas of bitter almonds, hazelnuts, dark chocolate, incense and Cuban cigar ash. The palate is broad, round and enveloping, with remarkable acidity that brings tension and lift. A powerful, majestic wine — a tamed beast, as Parker called it.

Robert Parker – Wine Advocate
"Very intense and with great acidity… a very serious Oloroso… bitter almonds, hazelnuts, incense, Cuban cigar ash, and dark chocolate. A tamed beast."

Suggested Pairings

• Game meats (wild boar, venison)

• Spiced meat stews

• Aged or blue cheeses

• Bitter dark chocolate desserts

• Fine cigars