Wednesday, June 4, 2008

Gran Duque de Alba Solera Gran Reserva

I recently received a press release about Gran Duque de Alba Solera Gran Reserva, a Spanish Brandy. I had never heard of this before but it did intrigue me. Ryan over Catavino has had Gran Duque before and said it is very enjoyable. So let me share some information about it.
Gran Duque de Alba Solera Gran Reserva is an ultra-smooth, super- premium brandy from Jerez, Spain. Like its namesake, the Grand Duke of the regiment of Flanders, this mahagony-gold brandy has an aristocratic heritage. It is aged 12 years in oak casks under Spain's time honored, carefully regulated solera system that also produces the world's finest sherry. Gran Duque de Alba has notes of roasted nuts, warm caramel, dark fruit and a hint of spice with a deep aroma and a fine, smooth aftertaste. It is perfect for sipping room temperature in a snifter, enjoying with a cigar or mixing in a cocktail.

Gran Duque de Alba is the world's number one Solera Gran Reserva Spanish brandy and is the 2008 recipient of Gold Medals from both the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and the Beverage Testing Institute's International Review of Spirits. This sumptuous spirit was recently deemed a "classic" with top ratings by Wine Enthusiast Magazine, as well as a "Best Buy."

Brandy de Jerez is one of only three place-specific appellations for brandy, the others being Cognac and Armagnac in France. The D.O. of Jerez is closely controlled by a Consejo Regulador (regulatory council) to ensure that strict production and ageing processes are adhered to. The Consejo is responsible for checking every aspect of the production process - from the vineyards to harvesting procedures to ageing and quality control.

Gran Duque de Alba comes in a distinguished bottle with a photograph of the Duke of Flanders on the label and an elegant red wax seal that was designed by renowned ceramic artist Antoni Cumella. The average retail price is $46/bottle.
For an even richer experience, indulge with Gran Duque de Alba Oro Solera Gran Reserva Especial. This ultra premium brandy is aged a minimum of 25 years through seven separate soleras. Average retail price is $150/bottle.

Gran Duque de Alba is produced by Williams & Humbert, a world renowned bodega located in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain, that is the largest winery in Europe with more than 1,200 acres of vineyards. Their portfolio includes Dry Sack sherry, Gran Duque de Alba brandy and Crema de Alba. It is imported by Kindred Spirits of North America Inc., Miami.

5 comments:

Educator said...

This is my second favorite drink on earth - I only place Cardenal Mendoza Brandy de Jerez above it. I wish it was more available in the US, but I guess that might compromise the quality.

Unknown said...

I could not agree more with Educator. I buy this Brandy whenever I see it available (rarely I might add). Its smoothness and great bouquet makes it my all time favorite.

Anonymous said...

Not sure about nationwide distribution, but most liquor stores in the Miami area carry this gem. Just picked up a bottle this evening for $39.99.

Anonymous said...

I am a fan of Cardinal Mendoza as well as Lepanto which is more like a cognac. Gran Duque de Alba is almost a blend of the two flavors like a half and half in the beer world. Its sherry like flavor is not as pronounced as in the Cardinal Mendoza which to me is not a bad thing.

Anonymous said...

I have two very old bottle for sale. Sealed and in their red velvet boxes. Very old....probably over 30 yrs. Contact me anytime for details.

Doug 786-291-4247