Valdespino Amontillado Dry ‘Tio Diego’

Valdespino Amontillado Dry ‘Tío Diego’

Producer: Valdespino
Region: Jerez, Andalucía, Spain
Country: Spain
Type: Fortified wine – Dry Amontillado Sherry
Grape: 100% Palomino Fino
Classification: Average age 15 years
Alcohol: 18%

Description

Once described by Luis Gutiérrez (Robert Parker) as “the Domaine de la Romanée-Conti of Jerez”, Valdespino stands at the pinnacle of traditional Sherry production. With viticultural origins tracing back to 1264, the house is uncompromising in its pursuit of authenticity, drawing on some of the finest vineyards in the region — most notably the revered Macharnudo Alto, often considered the Grand Cru of Jerez.

The Tío Diego is a benchmark Amontillado, crafted exclusively from Palomino Fino grapes grown in Macharnudo Alto. It is fermented in oak casks and undergoes 10 years of biological aging under flor, using a solera system separate from the Fino Inocente, followed by 5 years of oxidative aging.

The result is a dry, elegant and expressive Sherry. The nose is floral and perfumed, with notes of dried flowers, roasted nuts and sea spray. On the palate, it is medium-bodied, crisp and savoury, with great freshness and a clean, persistent finish. A textbook Amontillado, offering outstanding character and value for a wine of such age and pedigree.

Robert Parker – Wine Advocate
"A very fine Amontillado, showing superb value for a 15-year-old wine. Beautiful, perfumed nose of dry flowers, elegant and clean, with saline notes. Medium-bodied and balanced."

Suggested Pairings

• Salted almonds and cured olives

• Onion soup or consommé

• Smoked fish

• Jamón Ibérico or fine charcuterie

• Aged cheeses such as Manchego or Comté