1995 Valbuena No 5
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Tasting notes
Deep garnet colour. Some scorched-earth aromas as well as overripe black fruit. The palate feels a little thin, with stringy acidity and a lack of flesh on the palate. Perhaps a touch of vegetal character on the finish as well – reminds me of spring onions (is that a sulphur compound, perhaps?). A bit of lingering mustiness – showing its age. (RH)
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Very flattering, full and rich with savoury notes underneath. Quite animal but definitely seductive. (JR)
A new release from Vega Sicilia, Spain's most renowned winery, is the reasonably priced 1995 Valbuena. A plum/ruby color is followed by aromas of sweet black fruits intermixed with licorice, earth, and spicy oak. Full-bodied, with excellent concentration, a juicy, layered texture, and fine purity, it is forward, plush, and best consumed within its first 10-12 years of life. Importer: A Christopher Cannan Selection, various American importers including Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300 and Diamond Wine Merchants, Oakland, CA; tel. (510) 567-9897
Good ruby-red. Roasted plum, currant and damp earth on the nose; shows a warm, almost raisiny suggestion of surmaturite Plummy and concentrated, but ultimately a wine of moderate rather than outstanding density. My sample showed a distinct note of varnish in the mouth with aeration. Chief enologist Javier Ausas ranks this vintage behind both '96 and '94, and says it for drinking before those two vintages. Finishes with slightly drying tannins. Perhaps in an awkward stage today. Judgment deferred.
About the producer
Vega Sicilia is undoubtably Spain’s most famous winery; a true icon in fine wine with a history dating back to 1864.