The Pedro Ximénez
Grape
A white grape variety most famously used in the production of sweet, dessert-style Sherry in the Andalusia region of Spain. Wines made from Pedro Ximénez (often abbreviated to PX) are rich, viscous, and intensely sweet, with flavors of raisins, figs, and molasses, resulting from the sun-drying process that concentrates the grape's sugars.
Pedro Ximénez
Grape History
Pedro Ximénez is a white grape variety that is predominantly known for producing rich, sweet, and luscious dessert wines. Its history dates back centuries, with origins rooted in the Andalusian region of Spain. The grape is believed to have been brought to Spain from the Rhine region in Germany during the 16th century. Its name is thought to be derived from a German soldier by the name of Peter Siemens who may have been involved in the grape's transport to Spain.
One of the most interesting aspects of the Pedro Ximénez grape is its versatility. While it is most commonly associated with the production of sweet, fortified wines, it can also be used to create dry, crisp white wines. In Jerez, Spain, the grape is often left to dry in the sun after harvesting, which concentrates its sugars and flavors, resulting in the production of intensely sweet wines that are treasured worldwide.
Pedro Ximénez is primarily grown in the Andalusian region of Spain, particularly in the Montilla-Moriles and Jerez regions. The intense heat and dry conditions of the region create the perfect environment for this grape to thrive and develop its unique characteristics.
One of the most famous wine styles made from Pedro Ximénez grapes is the Pedro Ximénez dessert wine, which is known for its rich sweetness, dark color, and flavors of raisins, dates, and caramel. These wines are often used as a dessert on their own or as a topping for ice creams or other sweets.
In recent years, Pedro Ximénez has gained popularity not only in Spain but also in other wine-producing regions such as Australia and South America. Winemakers are experimenting with different styles, including dry white wines and sparkling wines, showcasing the grape's incredible versatility.
The future of Pedro Ximénez looks promising, with continued interest and experimentation from winemakers around the world. As consumers become more adventurous in their wine choices, this grape variety is likely to gain even more recognition and respect in the global wine market. With its unique flavor profile and historic significance, Pedro Ximénez is sure to remain a beloved grape variety for wine enthusiasts for years to come.
Introduction
Hello, my name is Franklin Laurel - Welcome!
I started drinking wine in 1992 when I was in my early twenties and recently married. Like many other young Southern Californians, it started out with White Zinfandel. As we were a couple of young DINKs just beginning life together, and on a budget, our go-to-wine was Sutter Home White Zinfandel, which tasted a lot like wine coolers and probably cost at the time $2.49. If we really were going to splurge, we would step it up and buy Beringer White Zinfandel for $2.99. Those were the days....
After a little time, we decided to get fancy. We stepped up our game and bought some wonderful 2-Buck Chuck from Trader Joe's. The Charles Shaw (Trader Joe's Exclusive Label) wine, also known as 2-Buck-Chuck extended our pallet into Reds for only $1.99 a bottle. Over the years we continued to grow in our understanding of wine (finally ran into some good wine) and we slowly kept buying better and better bottles.
Our first wine club purchase was from Kenwood's Vineyards, in Kenwood, California located in Sonoma Valley, right next to the famous Napa Valley. I began to learn about tobacco leather, and earthiness, and lots of other strange terminology when tasting their signature Zinfandels (of the red variety). So that is how it all began.
Fast forward a couple decades, and we have been members of five different wine clubs, and now have a passion for California's red wines. My favorite by far is Cabernet Sauvignon, while my wife fancies a good Syrah, Malbec, or Merlot - but she also loves the smell of a wine barrel room, which is all about the notes of Cabernet Sauvignon.
As I come across great wine resources and useful information that I find in planning my own wine trips, I will share here for anyone that might stumble across my humble website.
Cheers! - Franklin Laurel