Spain — wine

Montilla-Moriles DO

Córdoba province in Andalusia; southern Spain's other great fortified wine region beside Jerez. Pedro Ximénez is the dominant variety — achieving natural 14–15% alcohol without fortification in the intense Montilla heat. The white albariza chalk soils are the same as Jerez. Produces Fino, Amontillado, Oloroso, and the iconic thick dark Pedro Ximénez raisin wine (shipped as 'PX' to Jerez for sweetening). Often overlooked in favour of Sherry.

Year Rating Notes
2022 Intense Andalusian heat; Pedro Ximénez sun-dried to raisin perfection; 1927 solera refreshed with exceptional young wine
2021 Good conditions; CB Fino from natural 14.5% PX showing exceptional freshness; classic Montilla vintage
2020 Outstanding vintage; Pedro Ximénez naturally fortified concentration remarkable; Alvear range of exceptional quality
2019 Classic Montilla profile; intensely hot and dry; PX grapes achieved maximum sugar concentration naturally
2018 Variable Andalusian conditions; hot summer; solera wines unaffected; young wine base quality maintained
2017 Very warm vintage; PX sun-drying produced excellent raisin quality; 1927 solera received outstanding refreshment
2016 Benchmark Montilla-Moriles vintage; Alvear wines received international critical recognition; solera conditions ideal