Pedro Ximenez Triana, Vinicola Hidalgo NV

Bodegas Hidalgo was established by the Hidalgo family in 1792 and is still owned and run by the eighth generation today. At present, they use only grapes grown in their own vineyards to make their wines. Droderigo de Triana was a local man who sailed with Columbus to the new world. He was in the crow`s nest of the ship when the coast of what we now call the Americas came into view. This sweet Pedro Ximenez is named for him. It is made from Pedro Ximenez grapes, which are first left in the sun to become raisins, concentrating the sweetness and flavours of the grape juice. They are then pressed and vinified, before 12 years ageing in solera. The resultant wine has an intense, dark treacle colour and rich, luscious texture. Intense on the nose, with aromas of prunes, figs, sweet pear and caramel, the palate is full, velvety and opulently sweet (350g/l). This is beautiful served with blue cheeses or vanilla ice cream – or on its own.