Lustau Solera Standout 2026 Top 50
Words by Simon Difford
From bone-dry Fino to luscious Pedro Ximénez, Lustau's sherries offer bartenders an exceptional palette of flavours. Add the bodega's acclaimed brandies and vermouths, including category-defining Lustau Vermut Rosé, and the creative possibilities are vast. The judges' selection of the 50 best cocktails reflects that remarkable diversity.
Many thanks to all the bartenders who contributed recipes. Judging continues, and the TOP 15 Finalists will be announced on Friday 14 August 2026.
Thank you old friend
Before you drink it, it’s better to take a bite from the pitch
Quezon City
A lightbodied riff on a Manhattan, meant to be enjoyed in hot weather with good food.
Albariza
Este cóctel esta inspirado en el color de la tierra albariza, el sabor es la esencia del amontillado combinado con un dulce agave y se balancea con las
Where Flor Begins
A delicate and mineral cocktail inspired by the white albariza soils of Sanlúcar de Barrameda. Built around Lustau Manzanilla Papirusa, it enhances its
Sobremesa
Rich and dark upfront, with the raisined sweetness of Pedro Ximénez-style sherry meeting fresh espresso and a warm brandy backbone. Gin Mare's herbal,
Belétage Adonis
The Belétage Adonis evolves the classic into a three-part composition centred on Lustau Amontillado. Its biological and oxidative ageing shapes the cocktail's
Circe
Floral and aromatic on the nose, with notes of orange blossom and herbs. A rich, velvety palate of ripe banana, red fruit and bittersweet botanicals, followed
Fourth Deck
A bright and elegant stirred cocktail that balances the saline dryness of Lustau Fino Sherry with fresh melon, citrus and alpine herbs. Layers of Midori,
Red Flag
A delicate, fresh, sweet and sour cocktail with floral and fruity notes but also with a hint of bitterness on the back palate!
Travesía
The cocktail starts lightly sweet with floral/tropical notes and grapefruit aroma. It then shifts into the classic nutty notes typical of sherry, but with
La Sobremesa
Rich notes of dried fruit, caramel, and toasted nuts are lifted with a touch of coffee and bright citrus. Smooth and balanced, the finish is warm but bright,
Perlita
A floral, funky yet elegant twist on the classic Adonis cocktail. Perlita highlights Lustau Manzanilla Papirusa’s delicate maritime salinity, balanced
BEE ROUS
Inspired by the structure of a classic through a contemporary lens. Fino brings freshness and precision. Palo Cortado layers of dried fruits, spice and
Liquid Amber
Liquid Amber is a sweet-bitter highball with floral Moscato and herbal, tart Rueberry. Tonic brings light bitterness and a crisp finish, while a whole
Levante
The taste of the sherry ist the star in this drink. All other ingredients support this. In the finish, the drink is strongly reminiscent of a Croissant
Cortaburma (Cutting Through the Mist)
A bright, low-ABV tropical cocktail where oxidative sherry, warm spice and fresh citrus meet rich orgeat. It opens vibrant and gently sweet before evolving
