Vega Sicilia, one of Spain’s most famous and legendary wine estates, is located in Ribera del Duero, in the Valbuena de Duero in the province of Valladolid, Castilla y Leon. Founded in 1864 by Don Eloy Lacanda y Chaves, who brought cuttings of Bordelaise varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot, and Pinot Noir from Bordeaux, the estate changed hands several times before it was purchased in 1982 by the Alvarez family. This marked the beginning of one of the most prosperous periods in the history of the company.

A large estate of nearly 1,000 hectares, just 210 hectares are planted to vines which have been grown on the Vega Sicilia estate for over a hundred years. The vines, with an average age of 35 years, are planted to three varieties: Tempranillo (80%), Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, and are used to produce Vega Sicilia Unico and Valbuena, as well as wine for their sister property, Bodegas Alion.

Founded on an unwavering commitment to quality and the pursuit of excellence, Vega Sicilia’s guiding principle is that “the best wine is still to be made”.

Introducing the remarkable 2014 Vega Sicilia Valbuena 5 Year Old Tinto, a red wine that exemplifies the excellence and artistry of winemaking in Spain. Hailing from the esteemed region of Castilla y Leon in Ribera Del Duero, this proprietary blend showcases the mastery of Vega Sicilia, a renowned producer with a rich history of crafting exceptional wines.

In the glass, this wine displays a deep, alluring red color that hints at the intensity and complexity within. The aromas that waft from the glass are nothing short of captivating. Ripe black cherries and plums intertwine with notes of dark chocolate and licorice, creating a symphony of enticing scents. As you delve deeper into the bouquet, rich blueberries, cassis, and dark roasting herbs emerge, adding layers of depth and intrigue.

Upon the first sip, the palate is greeted with a luscious and fleshy texture that coats the mouth with velvety smoothness. The black fruit flavors take center stage, showcasing the power and intensity of this wine. The tannins are deeply structured, providing a firm backbone and ensuring a long and memorable finish. Every sip reveals a new facet of this wine's complexity, leaving a lasting impression on the palate.

Renowned critics have showered this wine with accolades, and rightfully so. James Suckling awarded it an impressive 96 points, praising its ripeness and extraordinary power and freshness. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also bestowed it with a 96-point score, noting its expressiveness, complexity, and great length. Wine Spectator and Decanter both awarded it 93 and 94 points, respectively, highlighting its ripe fruit, well-integrated tannins, and memorable finish. Wine Enthusiast and Jeb Dunnuck similarly lauded this wine, awarding it 94 points each and emphasizing its lush flavors, smooth tannins, and overall balance.

This 2014 Vega Sicilia Valbuena 5 Year Old Tinto is a wine of remarkable quality and finesse. While it is approachable now, its true potential will be realized with further aging. From 2024 onwards, this wine will continue to evolve and delight, reaching new heights of excellence. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for future indulgence, this wine is a testament to the artistry and passion of Vega Sicilia and a true gem of Spanish winemaking.