In the glass

Full-bodiedFirm tanninMedium acidityDryLong finish

Aroma: dark cherry, plum, cedar, vanilla, dried rose

Palate: blackcurrant, dark chocolate, dried herbs, spice, mineral

Vega Sicilia's earlier-release sibling to Unico, aged five years in oak, with a more approachable but still deeply structured profile of dark cherry, cedar and mineral complexity.

What it pairs with

  • Roast suckling pig (cochinillo)
    Classic Castilian pairing; the wine's structure complements the richness of the roast.
  • Venison stew
    Game's iron richness is balanced by the wine's firm tannic frame.
  • Aged Manchego
    Nutty, crystalline cheese pulls out the wine's fruit and cedar notes.

History

Named for its five years of oak ageing, Valbuena was historically produced alongside Unico as the shorter-aged wine of the estate. It was released as Valbuena 5 Grado to distinguish its ageing regime from the decade-plus Unico.

  1. 1864 — Vega Sicilia estate founded
  2. 1982 — DO Ribera del Duero granted

Facts

Producer
Bodegas Vega Sicilia
Grapes
Tinto Fino, Merlot
Classification
DO Ribera del Duero
Oak
Five years of ageing in American and French oak casks before release
ABV
13.5%
Price
€100-200 at retail
Drinking window
5-25 from vintage
First vintage
1915

Tags

cellar worthy dry firm tannin full body iconic medium acid merlot mood contemplative mood elegant occasion cellar occasion dinner party occasion special old world pairs with game pairs with pork pairs with red meat price fine still red tinto fino
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