2007 Vega Sicilia, Valbuena 5.°, Ribera del Duero DO 1x750ml

Robert Parker 92

The 2007 Valbuena is rounded and warmer than the 2006 with lush dark berry fruits interlaced with scents of espresso and bay leaf. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, crisp acidity with a composed, focused finish of black cherries, raspberry, cedar and mocha. The 2007 has great precision and focus. It is more feminine and assured than the 2006, but one senses that it is holding something back to charm consumers in five or six year’s time. This is very impressive. Drink 2017-2030. Importer: Christopher Cannan. SRP $190/bottle. [Neal Martin, 31/08/2012]

Anticipated maturity: 2017-2030

Vinous 93

(tempranillo, merlot and cabernet sauvignon): Ruby-red. Aromas of dried cherry, raspberry, vanilla, mocha and Cuban tobacco, with smoke and potpourri accents. Supple and expansive, offering sweet, spice-accented red and dark berry and floral pastille flavors that stain the palate. Dusty tannins add shape and grip to the very long, smooth, penetrating finish. I find this wine quite approachable now but it has the balance to age. Not the weightiest Valbuena but very impressive for the vintage. [Josh Raynolds, 09/01/2012]