Gran Duque de Alba XO

Gran Duque de Alba XO is a Solera brandy from Jerez, matured according to the traditional Criaderas y Solera system, a practice cultivated in the Sherry region for centuries. Williams & Humbert, founded in 1877 and still one of the great names of Jerez, ages this brandy in ex-Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez casks made of American oak. The XO designation marks the highest level of the Gran Duque de Alba line—matured longer and more intensely than the classic bottling.

The glass displays a deep mahogany color. The nose opens with dried fruits—raisins, dates, figs—followed by dark chocolate and a hint of roasted walnut. On the palate, it is soft and full-bodied, the sweetness from the PX casks carrying without being cloying. The finish is long and warm, with vanilla and a touch of leather and tobacco.

Neat at room temperature or over a large ice cube, the XO unfolds its full aromatic profile. It's also a classic digestif after a hearty main course—leg of lamb, braised beef cheeks, or aged Manchego cheese pair well with it. For cocktail enthusiasts: a Brandy Old Fashioned with an orange zest twist beautifully highlights the fruity depth of the Oloroso.