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Vega Sicilia Valbuena 5° 2021 represents the purest expression of Tinto Fino (also known as Tempranillo) from one of Spain’s most iconic wine estates, nestled in the Province of Valladolid, Castile and León, in the heart of Ribera del Duero. While Tinto Fino forms the backbone of the blend, a small proportion of Merlot is incorporated, with the exact balance varying by vintage. In 2021, the wine is composed of 96% Tinto Fino and 4% Merlot, showcasing the variety at its most authentic and expressive. Expect notes of black cherry, spice, tobacco and graphite with firm tannins and vibrant acidity.
Vega Sicilia Valbuena is defined by an unhurried five-year maturation journey, moving through French and American oak barrels, large wooden vats, stainless steel, and finally bottle rest. Each stage is carefully considered, building structure and balance layer by layer as the wine finds its equilibrium. The result is a wine of remarkable composure – poised, precise and deeply harmonious, with all the focus and depth that mark a truly exceptional vintage and signal an outstanding future in the cellar.
The 2021 growing season began with a mild autumn and early winter. Storm Filomena brought snow and very low temperatures in January. Spring brought timely rainfall, leading to optimal timing for budbreak in early April. A cool summer encouraged steady ripening, and September remained dry. Harvest took place from 30th September to 10th October.
Vega Sicilia Valbuena 5° 2021 is a poised expression of Vega Sicilia’s meticulous viticulture from an excellent vintage. A superb wine for a special occasion.
Vega Sicilia can trace its origins back to 1864, when it was established by Don Eloy Lecanda y Chaves, who planted various grape varieties from the Bordeaux wine region of France, including Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The estate has been owned by the Álvarez family since 1982.
1982 was the year that Ribera del Duero was granted Denominación de Origen (DO) status, and it is the Alvarez family who have turned Vega Sicilia into one of the world’s iconic wines. The estate comprises 1000 hectares with some 210 under vine. There are 19 soil types divided into 55 plots with very specific characteristics. The influence of the River Duero’s flow and the passage of time have been vital in developing these soils.
Vega Sicilia Valbuena 5° 2021 opens with an elegant, subtle nose with primary notes of blackberry, violet and fresh fruit alongside hints of cocoa powder, graphite and sandalwood.
On the palate, the wine is medium- to full-bodied with exceptional balance, underpinned by tannins that are simultaneously powerful and extraordinarily refined. The finish is long, focused and deeply expressive. This is a wine that will benefit from cellaring.
This will make a robust partner for herb-roasted lamb, venison or slow-cooked game in rich reductions. It also pairs beautifully with aged Manchego or high-quality dark chocolate.
95 Points – Luis Gutierrez, Wine Advocate, January 2026
98 Points – Zekun Shuai, JamesSuckling.com, September 2025 – “One of the finest Valbuenas available”
18.5 Points – Ferran Centelles, www.jancisrobinson.com
96 Points – Tim Atkin
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