Vega Sicilia Valbuena No. 5 2017

2017 was marked by the frost of the night between April 27 and 28 that Vega Sicilia fought with their anti-frost towers. The end of the season was warm, and the overall rain was low, 235 litres. The 2017 Valbuena is marked by these circumstances, produced with 94% Tinto Fino (Tempranillo) and 6% Merlot, with good ripeness (14.5% alcohol) and mellow acidity (4.65 grams of tartaric acid and a pH of 3.85). The grapes were cooled down, and took three to four days of maceration to start fermenting with indigenous yeasts. The wine matured in a combination of new and used French and American 225-litre oak barrels and 21,000-liter oak vats for almost three years. The result, for whatever reason, was nothing short of spectacular. The wine is aromatic, floral, expressive and balsamic like a few vintages. It doesn't feel like 2017 at all. It is harmonious, and the tannins were fine. It's an amazing Valbuena that transcends the character of the vintage. I see here that since 2010, the wine has had very high consistency, and in 2017 it excels.

This shows beautiful aromas of blackberries, violets and sandalwood with vanilla undertones. Full-bodied with racy tannins and gorgeous fruit. Linear and very long. Slightly chewy. It needs time to come together, but already of excellent quality. Drink after 2023.