Wines Unspecified Lustau - San Emilio

Viniou Reviews

Lustau San Emilio is a distinguished sweet wine from Spain, produced in the sun-drenched region of Andalusia. Though non-vintage, this cuvée is crafted from 100% Pedro Ximénez grapes, renowned for their extraordinary sugar concentration. The grapes are sun-dried after harvest, intensifying their natural sugars and flavours, before being pressed and vinified into a lusciously rich, dark, and unctuous wine. Ageing takes place through the solera system in oak casks, a traditional method in Jerez that imparts layers of complexity, integrating flavours over several years to result in a wine with notes of dried figs, dates, molasses, and a hint of roasted coffee. San Emilio represents one of Lustau’s finest Pedro Ximénez expressions, reflecting the producer’s commitment to quality and authentic regional style.

Andalusia, in southern Spain, boasts a long history of producing fortified and sweet wines, largely thanks to its hot, arid climate and the unique albariza soils, rich in chalk and ideal for retaining moisture during the parched summer months. The combination of intense sunlight and cooling Atlantic breezes helps to create the perfect conditions for growing Pedro Ximénez grapes destined for sweet wine production. The centuries-old sherry tradition thrives here, making this region a true bastion of iconic Spanish wines.

Lustau San Emilio, with its decadent sweetness and rich, raisiny character, is a wine best enjoyed on its own as a luxurious digestif, or paired with desserts. Classic pairings include blue cheeses like Cabrales, creamy vanilla ice cream, dark chocolate tarts, or traditional Spanish almond pastries such as polvorones. For a more adventurous experience, try it lightly chilled alongside foie gras or a rich pâté, where the lusciousness of the wine balances beautifully with the savoury depth of the dish.

For optimal enjoyment, serve Lustau San Emilio slightly chilled, ideally between 10 and 12°C. This enhances its aromatic intensity and preserves its balance, allowing the concentrated sweetness and complex nutty undertones to fully express themselves on the palate.