2020 Vega Sicilia, Valbuena 5.°, Ribera del Duero DO 1x75cl

Vinous 95

The 2020 Valbuena 5 is Tinta del Pais from Ribera del Duero. Balsamic and herbal aromas mingle with forest, red fruit, cherry, violet and a hint of apple peel on the nose. The palate is intense, with a velvety texture, moderate concentration and enveloping flow. Chalky tannins and a touch of creaminess define the structure. Ample and richly flavored, with subtle oak in the background. A fine example of elegant Ribera. [Joaquín Hidalgo, 25/06/2025]

Anticipated maturity: 2025-2040

JancisRobinson.com 17.5

97% Tinto Fino, 3% Merlot. From the famous Vega Sicilia vineyard, located between 720 and 930 m above sea level on a limestone marl soil. For the first year of ageing, barrels (80% French, 20% American). For the second year, 6,000- and 9,000-litre foudres. 6 months in stainless steel for blending and 30 months of resting in the bottle. Production: 186,286 bottles, 5,673 magnums, 400 double magnums, 35 Imperials and 5 Salmanazars. It has been a year in which the vineyard gave less concentration, so the oenological work is impressive because the wine shows intensity, the presence of ripe black fruit and tannin that is sweet in the mid palate but ends up being drier on the finish. Very ripe black fruit and a touch of violet stand out. Little oak impact for the Valbuena style. This is one of the most tactile vintages and still has many years ahead of it. Dense texture, powerful, and still very primary for the average Valbuena. (FC) [04/11/2024]

Anticipated maturity: 2024-2050