Gran Duque d'Alba Solera Grand Reserva
Gran Duque d'Alba Solera Grand Reserva is an 80-proof (40% ABV) 750mL Brandy de Jerez — aged over 12 years in the traditional criaderas-and-solera system in American oak barrels previously holding Sherry Oloroso. Produced by Bodegas Williams & Humbert of Jerez de la Frontera, Spain, from Palomino and Airén white wines distilled in alquitara stills, it is one of the region's most decorated brandies. It is available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
- ABV: 40% (80 proof)
- Size: 750mL
- Age: over 12 years in the solera system
- Production: Palomino + Airén wines, alquitara distillation, aged in ex-Oloroso American oak
- Producer: Williams & Humbert (est. 1877), Jerez de la Frontera, Spain
- Awards: 94 pts Wine Enthusiast (Dec 2020); 93 pts + Gold, San Francisco World Spirits Competition (Apr 2024) — via US importer Palm Bay
Twelve Years of Jerez in the Glass
Brandy de Jerez is Spain's only protected brandy appellation, and the solera method — fractional blending through stacked casks — gives Gran Duque d'Alba its seamless depth: vanilla, baking spices, and dried plum with a distinctly sherried core of caramel, chocolate, and orange. The Williams & Humbert house, founded in 1877, farms some 1,200 acres around Jerez. Browse the Gran Duque d'Alba collection and the brandy collection at Del Mesa.
Tasting Notes
Mahogany with golden nuances; the nose opens with vanilla, baking spice, and dried plum. The palate is medium-dry, smooth, and full-bodied — vanilla, caramel, chocolate, and orange over sherry-oak warmth, with a long elegant finish.
How to Enjoy
Neat in a snifter at room temperature is classic; a few drops of water open the sherry character. It also elevates a Brandy Alexander for the holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Gran Duque d'Alba aged?
Over 12 years in the traditional solera system, in American oak barrels previously used for Sherry Oloroso.
Where is it made?
Jerez de la Frontera, Spain, by Bodegas Williams & Humbert — under the protected Brandy de Jerez appellation.
What grapes are used?
Palomino and Airén white wines, fermented at low temperatures and distilled in alquitara-type stills.
Spain's sherried brandy at its most decorated — order Gran Duque d'Alba Solera Grand Reserva online from Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.