# Valbuena 5º (2019)

- **Producer:** Vega Sicilia
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Tempranillo, Merlot
- **Region:** Castilla y León, Spain
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €175
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** red plum, black cherry, red cherry, black plum, vanilla, cedar, cloves, tobacco, earth, leather, forest floor

## About this wine

Vega Sicilia Valbuena 5º is a distinguished red wine from Ribera del Duero, Spain. The name 'Valbuena 5º' refers to its extensive five-year aging period in oak and bottle. Vega Sicilia, established in 1864, is a winery with a long-standing reputation for excellence, now under the stewardship of the Álvarez family since 1982. The wine is cultivated in vineyards situated at elevations between 700 and 900 meters, contributing to its unique character. The 2019 vintage was shaped by a drier growing season, with winemaking efforts focused on maintaining fruit purity and freshness.

## Interesting facts

- Valbuena 5º means 'fifth' in reference to its 5-year aging.
- Vines average 35 years old, planted at high altitudes (700-900m).
- Estate spans 210 hectares with 19 distinct soil types.
- The 2019 saw a shift towards French oak over American oak.

## Food pairing

The wine's structure and fine tannins are well-suited to complement the proteins in red meats and game, softening their texture. Its subtle spice and fruit notes can echo or contrast with accompanying herbs and sauces, creating a harmonious dining experience.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Vega Sicilia Valbuena 5º begins with a manual harvest of grapes from vines averaging 35 years of age, planted at high altitudes. Fermentation employs gentle extraction techniques to maintain fruit purity and freshness, with malolactic fermentation occurring in stainless steel. The wine then undergoes an extensive five-year aging regimen, comprising two years in oak, with a recent emphasis on French oak for the 2019 vintage, followed by significant bottle aging. This patient approach is central to the wine's development and character.