Premium Brandy de Jerez, 40% ABV, Spain
Cardenal Mendoza Solera Gran Reserva Brandy is a prestigious Spanish Brandy de Jerez, first created in 1887 by the Sánchez Romate family for private consumption before being released commercially. It is categorized as a "Solera Gran Reserva," the highest category for Spanish brandy, which requires extensive aging far beyond the standard legal minimum.
This brandy is crafted using a selection of the finest holandas (high-quality wine spirits) distilled from Airén grapes in traditional copper pot stills. It is aged for an average of 15 years—significantly longer than the three years required for its classification—using the traditional "soleras and criaderas" system in Jerez de la Frontera. The maturation takes place in American oak casks that previously held Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez sherries, which imparts a deep complexity and characteristic sweetness to the final spirit.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: A luminous, transparent dark mahogany with bright copper glints.
Aroma: Clean and elegant with "vinous" reminders of the sherry-seasoned barrels. Prominent notes include raisins, plums, vanilla, and noble wood.
Palate: Exceptionally smooth and well-balanced. It features flavors of dried fruits (raisins, prunes, dates), roasted coffee, dark chocolate, and a hint of caramel.
Finish: Very long and persistent, characterized by lingering nuances of nuts and sweet spices.
Specifications
Brand - Cardenal Mendoza (Produced by Sánchez Romate Hnos.)
Type - Brandy de Jerez Solera Gran Reserva
Origin - Jerez de la Frontera, Andalusia, Spain
Alcohol Content (ABV) - 40%
Volume - 700 mL
Average Age - 15 Years
Cask Type - American Oak (Ex-Oloroso & Ex-Pedro Ximénez)
Base Ingredient - Airén Grapes
