Review: Vega Sicilia 1988 Valbuena 5
- vinterest
- Feb 27, 2015
- 1 min read
The low-down: I don't really need to give an introduction on this wine folks! Vega Sicilia is Spain's "first growth" and a huge international brand. Hugh Johnson likens them to the Chateau Latour of Spain but Latour of a vintage that has raisined the grapes and fried the picking crews!
Vega Sicilia distinguished itself in the 1860s as the first to bring Bordeaux varietals to the Ribera del Duero region in Spain.
The Valbuena 5 is their "second wine" but at 120 Euros (retailing in Barcelona) it's no shrinking violet. The 5 indicates it's aged for five years prior to release. The blend is 70% tinto fino with 15% each malbec and merlot. With a solid 27 years under its belt we can't wait to see what this delight reveals!
The take: A sunset, red-brown appearance; viscous. A sweet nose: blueberries, honey and yellow plum. Hints of sea salt and shellfish too. A smooth attack, good balance and a long finish. Sweet, creamy, blueberries, balanced by an earthy/chalky element.
In closing: Delicately smooth!
Rating: 9 out of 10.
Fact corner:
Country: Spain
Region: Ribera del Duero
Producer: Vega Sicilia
Vintage: 1988
Grape: Tinto fino, Malbec, Merlot
Alcohol content: 13.0%
Serving temperature: 16-18°
Price range: Premium
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