Description
Emilio Lustau Sherry East India Solera is a masterful recreation of history and a unique blend within the landscape of fortified wines. This wine is composed of a specific blend of 80% Palomino Fino and 20% Pedro Ximénez. As a Non-Vintage wine rooted in the Solera system, it does not reflect a single harvest year but rather a consistent house style maintained over decades. The fruit is sourced from the Jerez-Xérès-Sherry DO in southern Spain, where the vines struggle in the iconic albariza soils. These chalky, white soils are crucial for survival in this arid region, reflecting the intense Andalusian heat away from the vines while acting like a sponge to retain winter rainfall deep below the surface.
The winemaking philosophy behind this bottling is distinct, designed to replicate the flavor profile of sherries that crossed the oceans to the East Indies in the 17th century. The Palomino (aged as a dry Oloroso) and the Pedro Ximénez are first aged separately in their own soleras for approximately 12 years in American oak casks. They are then blended and moved to the warmest, most humid section of the winery, known as the sacristÃa, for an additional three years. This specific environmental exposure mimics the heat and gentle oxidation of a tropical sea voyage, accelerating the integration of the wines and softening the tannins significantly.
Visually, the wine presents a dark, opaque mahogany core with iodine and amber edges, displaying slow-moving "legs" that hint at its viscosity. The nose is profound and intense, offering a complex bouquet of burnt crème brûlée, dark chocolate, roasted walnuts, and concentrated raisins, with tertiary notes of old furniture polish and cedar. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and sweet (Cream Sherry style), yet it is impeccably balanced by a piercing acidity that prevents it from becoming cloying. Rich flavors of toffee, dried figs, mocha, and candied orange peel coat the mouth, leading to a finish that is exceptionally long, nutty, and smooth.
This sherry is a remarkable companion to rich American cuisine. It pairs beautifully with a classic Southern pecan pie; the wine's notes of maple and roasted nuts harmonize perfectly with the caramelized filling of the pastry. For a savory application, try it with slow-smoked BBQ beef brisket ends, where the sherry's sweetness complements the smoky char and the acidity cuts through the rendered fat. It is also a natural match for a board of sharp, aged cheddar or blue cheese. The wine has received consistent critical acclaim, most notably achieving a massive 96 points from the Wine Advocate. Despite this world-class recognition, it remains incredibly affordable, representing one of the greatest quality-to-price ratios in the entire world of fine wine.
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