Vega Sicilia Valbuena Tinto 5 Ano 2005

"The 2005 Valbuena is purple/black in color with an alluring nose of pain grille, pencil lead, Asian spices, espresso, incense, and blackberry. On the palate it reveals its elegant personality, round texture, savory flavors, and lengthy, pure finish. It merits 4-6 years of cellaring to fully unwind and will offer prime drinking from 2014 to 2030. "

93 Points

The Wine Advocate

"Bright ruby. Complex bouquet melds dried cherry, licorice, potpourri and minerals, plus a subtle smoky undertone. Very sweet and creamy in texture, offering intense red fruit flavors that gain power and spiciness with aeration. Picks up notes of cassis and cherry pit on the back end and finishes with impressive breadth and lingering sweetness. This is still a baby. By the way, the 1998 has years ahead of it but is showing a wild, pungent bouquet of dried herbs and flowers and excellent, mineral-driven red fruit right now. 93(+?) points. "

93 Points

International Wine Cellar

"Opens with classy aromas of lavender, thyme, sage and medicinality, i.e. plum liqueur. Super silky and smooth in the mouth, with velvety tannins and an elegance not found in most of the staunch, powerful wines of the region. Finishes almost creamy, with notes of tobacco, vanilla and cedar. 85% Tempranillo with 15% Merlot and Malbec."

92 Points

Wine Enthusiast

"This plush, balanced red shows blackberry, currant, licorice and chocolate flavors, with juicy acidity and just enough tannins for grip. Still youthful, offering concentration without heaviness. Drink now through 2014."

91 Points

Wine Spectator