Emilio Lustau East India Solera Reserve

Emilio Lustau East India Solera Reserve is a historic, richly layered sweet Sherry inspired by the wines once shipped on long sea voyages to the East Indies. Crafted by Emilio Lustau, this wine is a masterful blend of Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez aged separately for many years before being married and returned to the solera for further integration. The result is a fortified wine of remarkable depth, marrying oxidative complexity with natural sweetness and polish. Extended aging concentrates flavors while maintaining balance, avoiding heaviness in favor of harmony and elegance. This is a classic dessert Sherry with historical pedigree and modern precision. Decadent yet controlled, it showcases Lustau’s expertise in long-aged solera wines.

Nose
Intensely aromatic, with notes of fig, date, raisin, and molasses layered over toasted walnut, cocoa, and orange peel. Subtle hints of coffee, leather, and exotic spice add depth.

Palate
Silky and full-bodied, delivering flavors of caramelized nuts, dark chocolate, dried fruits, and toffee. The sweetness from Pedro Ximénez is balanced by the savory, oxidative backbone of Oloroso, creating structure and lift.

Finish
Long, warming, and luxurious, finishing with lingering notes of walnut, cocoa, and dried fruit, framed by gentle acidity and spice.

Blue cheeses – Exceptional with Roquefort, Stilton, or Cabrales, where sweetness and oxidation balance salt and intensity.

Chocolate desserts – Dark chocolate tarts, flourless chocolate cake, or cacao-forward desserts echo the wine’s cocoa notes.

Nut-based pastries – Almond cake, pecan pie, or baklava pair beautifully with the wine’s nutty richness.

After-dinner sipper – Ideal on its own as a contemplative digestif, slightly chilled or at cellar temperature.