Valdespino is one of the most treasured Sherries. El Candado is made from Pedro Ximenez grapes which are left out in the sunshine for at least a fortnight after harvest. The grapes slowly dehydrate, absorbing the unique and discernible characters of the Mediterranean as they turn into raisins. The sugar levels rise and the fruit is crafted into a wine showing an intense mahogany colour and alluring bouquet of aged rancio fruit. The palate is velvety rich, endowed with layers of complexity, remarkably smooth with a long and clean, exquisite aftertaste.

Valdespino are as old as Sherry itself, they still source fruit from from the first estate vineyard, established in the thirteenth century by Alfonso Valdespino. Generations of winemakers at Valdespino have made major contributions to the art of Sherry making. Valdespino employs the ancient Solera system, rackings and progressive elevation of the barrels to higher tiers, as the wines slowly age under a film of protective flor yeasts, ensuring consistency and quality in a fortified which is an assemblage of vintages. The Sherry cases are stacked in rows, the older ones are classed into ascending ages of Criadera, replenished as they mature with stocks of younger wine. Alcohol 18.0%