Pedro Ximénez

Region: Europe

Pedro Ximénez, affectionately known as PX, is a white grape synonymous with Spain’s richest, most indulgent Sherries. Thriving in the sun-drenched vineyards of Andalusia—especially around Montilla-Moriles and Jerez—it produces intensely sweet, dark, and syrupy dessert wines. Grapes are typically sun-dried before pressing, concentrating sugars and deepening flavors. PX Sherries are renowned for their velvety texture, explosion of dried fruit, and extraordinary sweetness, often poured over ice cream or enjoyed as the finale to a meal. Though best known for Sherry, PX also appears in blending and table wines of southern Spain and select regions worldwide.

Tasting Notes

Raisin Raisin
Fig Fig
Honey Honey

Taste Profile

  • Sweet
  • Full Body
  • Low Tannins
  • Moderate Acidity
  • Approximately 16%

The History of Pedro Ximénez

Pedro Ximénez’s origins are entwined with the history of Andalusian winegrowing. Legend tells of a 16th-century soldier bringing cuttings from Germany's Mosel, but genetic studies confirm its Spanish identity. Over centuries, PX adapted perfectly to the parched, chalky soils and searing sun of southern Spain. The labor-intensive tradition of asoleo (sun-drying grapes) enables the production of unctuously sweet Sherries, which became beloved throughout Europe by the 18th century. Today, PX preserves a link to a lavish, historic dessert wine culture, remaining a crown jewel of Spanish winemaking.

FAQs About Pedro Ximénez

How sweet is Pedro Ximénez Sherry?

PX Sherry is famously one of the world’s sweetest wines, with a syrupy texture and incredibly concentrated sugar and fruit.

What are common ways to enjoy PX wine?

Serve it slightly chilled as a dessert wine, drizzle over vanilla ice cream, or pair with blue cheese and roasted nuts for a decadent contrast.

Does Pedro Ximénez only come from Spain?

Spain—especially Montilla-Moriles and Jerez—is its stronghold, though small plantings exist in Australia, Chile, and South Africa, usually for sweet or fortified wines.

Can Pedro Ximénez age?

Yes; aged PX Sherries develop deeper molasses and toffee notes, sometimes maturing beautifully for decades.

Is Pedro Ximénez ever made in dry styles?

Rarely, but some unfortified dry table wines do exist, mostly outside of Andalusia; these are markedly different from the classic dessert PX Sherry.