Region
Region
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Inc. GSTSG$1,757.54 -
Wine Advocate (95)
No, the 2009 Valbuena is not a current release, but I had a bottle blind at a tasting and most people, including myself, guessed it was a Grand Cru Burgundy, so aromatic, floral, expressive and elegant it was. We couldn't believe it when the wine was revealed. Later, a bottle of the 2010 was opened, and it confirmed it as the best Valbuena of recent times, with a rare combination of elegance and power, combining characters of fine Burgundy and elegant Syrah from the Northern Rhône.Inc. GSTSG$953.44 -
(3x75cl) 2010
Wine Advocate (96)
Since the 2010 harvest, they ferment plot by plot, and it shows. This Valbuena has almost 100 components in it, smaller lots, all of them corresponding to a plot of vines. It has all the signs of being one of the best vintages ever for this second wine from Vega Sicilia, mostly Tempranillo but with 5% Merlot that matured five months in 20,000-liter oak vats, 18 months in new barriques (equal parts French and American oak), three months in used barrels and then five months in the vats again before being bottled in May 2013. 2010 seems to have the exuberance of the 2011 and the seriousness and elegance of 2009. It has the Burgundian philosophy of terroir, with all plots fermented and aged separately, giving each vineyard what it needs in terms of vinification and elevage resulting in something like 40 separate lots to blend. This wine has gained in precision and sharpness, and is very pure with delineated aromas and flavors. It is a world-class wine, possibly the best Valbuena ever. 180,000 bottles and some bigger-sized formats were filled. The wine will be released in 2015. Drink 2016-2025.Inc. GSTSG$920.73 -
(6x75cl) 2012
Wine Advocate (95)
The 2012 Valbuena was cropped from a vintage with a very dry and warm summer that resulted in very healthy grapes. Since the 2010 vintage, this wine is fermented plot by plot following the findings from a soils study they did. The élevage is in French and American oak barrels that on average lasts some 18 months followed by another 18 months in 20,000-liter oak vats, but of course some lots had more time in barrique and others more time in vat. It has ripe tannins and a powerful mouthfeel but with a soft texture. Even if it's not widely mentioned, it always has had some French grapes, mainly Merlot, but this 2012 is the first Valbuena ever to be really 100% Tempranillo—because the Merlot didn't behave well in this warm and dry year. It follows the path opened by the 2010, more precise and elegant, rounded by that extra time in larger vats to finish polishing the tannins. I find this 2012 halfway between 2010 and 2011. It has depth and elegance, more serious than Alión, which is always the (maybe unfair) comparison. 174,545 bottles and some larger formats were filled in April 2014.Inc. GSTSG$1,695.43 -
(6x75cl) 2016
Wine Advocate (96)
The 2016 Valbuena was produced with a blend of 94% Tinto Fino (Tempranillo) and 6% Merlot from 140 hectares dedicated to this wine. It fermented with indigenous yeasts, and the first year it matured in barrels (75% French, 25% American) and the second year in large oak vats. This is again a floral and elegant vintage of Valbuena, very much in line with what has happened in the best vintages since 2010. 2016 is going to be a wine that the public is going to like; it has an extroverted personality and is perfumed and generous, juicy and tasty and nicely textured, with fine-grained tannins and very focused and clean flavors. 2016 was a year of very good freshness in Ribera del Duero, a year they like even better than 2018. 182,882 bottles, 6,030 magnums and a few larger formats were produced. It was bottled in June 2019.Inc. GSTSG$1,512.29 -
Wine Advocate (96)
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 liters. 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-liter 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 perfumed, floral, expressive and balsamic like few vintages before. It doesn't feel like a 2017 at all; it is harmonious, and the tannins were fine. It's an amazing Valbuena that clearly transcends the character of the vintage. What I see here is that since 2010, the wine has a very high consistency. And in 2017 it excels. 170,071 bottles, 5,516 magnums and some larger formats produced. It was bottled in June 2020.Inc. GSTSG$413.26 -
Wine Advocate (96)
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 liters. 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-liter 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 perfumed, floral, expressive and balsamic like few vintages before. It doesn't feel like a 2017 at all; it is harmonious, and the tannins were fine. It's an amazing Valbuena that clearly transcends the character of the vintage. What I see here is that since 2010, the wine has a very high consistency. And in 2017 it excels. 170,071 bottles, 5,516 magnums and some larger formats produced. It was bottled in June 2020.Inc. GSTSG$699.46 -
Tim Atkin MW (97)
Produced entirely with estate fruit since the 1996 vintage, Valbuena combines Tinto Fino with 4% Merlot that's planted in the lower part of the farm close to the Duero river. Showing the structure and focus of the 2018 vintage, this is a scented, complex, savoury red that's just starting to get into its stride, with Mediterranean herb scents, fine tannins and some underlying grip and minerality.Inc. GSTSG$834.62 -
(6x150cl) 2018Tim Atkin MW (97)
Produced entirely with estate fruit since the 1996 vintage, Valbuena combines Tinto Fino with 4% Merlot that's planted in the lower part of the farm close to the Duero river. Showing the structure and focus of the 2018 vintage, this is a scented, complex, savoury red that's just starting to get into its stride, with Mediterranean herb scents, fine tannins and some underlying grip and minerality.Inc. GSTSG$2,697.58 -
Tim Atkin MW (96)
Reserva (14.5%) Valbuena nearly always contains a little Merlot, and that's the case on this 2019, which is dominated by 97% Tinto Fino. Aged in a classic combination of French and 15% American oak, it's a bold, layered, well-structured cuvée with blackberry and blueberry fruit supported by good acidity for the vintage, a balsamic undertone, stylish, youthful tannins and plenty of backbone.Inc. GSTSG$708.18 -
(1x300cl) 2020Jeb Dunnuck (97)
The 2020 Valbuena 5° ages five years in oak and bottle, which gives it its name. Harvest was challenging due to Covid and rain, requiring due diligence in the field and a faster, earlier harvest than anticipated, the grapes coming from the Vega Sicilia estate’s vines with about 35 years of age. It’s an ethereal, medium-bodied wine of lovely delicacy and elegance, 97% Tempranillo blended with 3% Merlot, then aged 12 months in French and American oak, six months in stainless steel and then 18 months in bottle. Blackcurrant, cedar, and balsamic highlight a citrusy freshness. It will hit its prime in five years and age another 20-25.Inc. GSTSG$1,313.41 -
Jeb Dunnuck (97)
The 2020 Valbuena 5° ages five years in oak and bottle, which gives it its name. Harvest was challenging due to Covid and rain, requiring due diligence in the field and a faster, earlier harvest than anticipated, the grapes coming from the Vega Sicilia estate’s vines with about 35 years of age. It’s an ethereal, medium-bodied wine of lovely delicacy and elegance, 97% Tempranillo blended with 3% Merlot, then aged 12 months in French and American oak, six months in stainless steel and then 18 months in bottle. Blackcurrant, cedar, and balsamic highlight a citrusy freshness. It will hit its prime in five years and age another 20-25.Inc. GSTSG$803.02 -
Vina Leizaola El Sacramento 2013 is a distinguished expression from the esteemed Rioja region of Spain. Crafted by the venerable Vina Leizaola estate, this wine exemplifies traditional winemaking artistry combined with modern precision. The selection begins with hand-picked Tempranillo grapes from meticulously managed vineyards, ensuring optimal ripeness and quality. Fermentation is carried out in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve the varietal’s pure fruit characteristics. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes a stringent ageing process in a combination of French and American oak barrels for 24 months, allowing it to develop complex layers of flavour and a refined structure. The 2013 vintage presents a deep ruby colour, with an enticing bouquet of dark cherries, plum, and subtle spices, complemented by elegant undertones of vanilla and cedar. On the palate, Vina Leizaola El Sacramento 2013 is full-bodied, showcasing balanced tannins and a persistent, harmonious finish. This wine is a testament to the producer’s dedication to excellence and is ideal for connoisseurs seeking a sophisticated Rioja experience.
Inc. GSTSG$142.68 -
(6x75cl) 2013Vina Leizaola El Sacramento 2013 is a distinguished expression from the esteemed Rioja region of Spain. Crafted by the venerable Vina Leizaola estate, this wine exemplifies traditional winemaking artistry combined with modern precision. The selection begins with hand-picked Tempranillo grapes from meticulously managed vineyards, ensuring optimal ripeness and quality. Fermentation is carried out in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve the varietal’s pure fruit characteristics. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes a stringent ageing process in a combination of French and American oak barrels for 24 months, allowing it to develop complex layers of flavour and a refined structure. The 2013 vintage presents a deep ruby colour, with an enticing bouquet of dark cherries, plum, and subtle spices, complemented by elegant undertones of vanilla and cedar. On the palate, Vina Leizaola El Sacramento 2013 is full-bodied, showcasing balanced tannins and a persistent, harmonious finish. This wine is a testament to the producer’s dedication to excellence and is ideal for connoisseurs seeking a sophisticated Rioja experience.
Inc. GSTSG$458.24 -
(1x75cl) 2014Tim Atkin MW (96)
What a discovery this was! Made by Belgian wine importer, Etienne Cordonnier, who has sold a chateau in St. Emilion to create an estate in Rioja, it’s subtle, stylish, beautifully crafted blend of Tempranillo with 8% Graciano. Serious yet polished, it has established itself as one of the Region’s best reds in the space of four vintages.Inc. GSTSG$157.22 -
(1x75cl) 2015Tim Atkin MW (96)
The latest vintage of Etienne Cordonnier’s wine, made with the help of Rioja legend Jesus Madrazo, is every bit as exciting as the 2014. Now housed in its own winery in Languardia, this is fasting turning into one of the very best producers in the region. Combining Tempranillo with 7% Graciano, it’s wonderfully perfumed and refined with polished tannins, tangy acidity and orange peel and blackberry fruit flavours. Delicious.Inc. GSTSG$157.94 -
Tim Atkin MW (96)
The latest vintage of Etienne Cordonnier’s wine, made with the help of Rioja legend Jesus Madrazo, is every bit as exciting as the 2014. Now housed in its own winery in Languardia, this is fasting turning into one of the very best producers in the region. Combining Tempranillo with 7% Graciano, it’s wonderfully perfumed and refined with polished tannins, tangy acidity and orange peel and blackberry fruit flavours. Delicious.Inc. GSTSG$514.92 -
Tim Atkin MW (97)
Now established in his own state-of-the-art modern winery and the owner of 19 hectares in Languardia, Navaridas and Lapueble de Labarca, divided into 19 different parcels, Etienne Cordonnier is producing one of Rioja’s most distinguished wines. The 2016 is the best release yet, made from Tempranillo and 8% Graciano and showing scented, floral elegance, fine tannins and subtle wood. Margaux meets Rioja?Inc. GSTSG$141.96 -
Tim Atkin MW (97)
Now established in his own state-of-the-art modern winery and the owner of 19 hectares in Languardia, Navaridas and Lapueble de Labarca, divided into 19 different parcels, Etienne Cordonnier is producing one of Rioja’s most distinguished wines. The 2016 is the best release yet, made from Tempranillo and 8% Graciano and showing scented, floral elegance, fine tannins and subtle wood. Margaux meets Rioja?Inc. GSTSG$595.62 -
Vina Mayor, Ribera del Duero, Tempranillo Reserva 2019 epitomises the excellence of Spanish winemaking. Crafted in the renowned Ribera del Duero region, this Reserva undergoes meticulous selection of Tempranillo grapes from high-altitude vineyards, ensuring optimal ripeness and complexity. The wine is vinified in stainless steel tanks to preserve its pure fruit character before ageing gracefully for 24 months in French oak barrels, followed by an additional 12 months in bottle. This careful maturation imparts elegant flavours of ripe red berries, plum, and subtle spice, complemented by well-integrated tannins and a long, refined finish. Vina Mayor, celebrated for its commitment to quality and tradition, employs sustainable viticultural practices, resulting in a wine that balances tradition with modern sophistication. The deep ruby hue and harmonious structure make Vina Mayor, Ribera del Duero, Tempranillo Reserva 2019 a distinguished choice for connoisseurs seeking depth and character in every sip.
Inc. GSTSG$241.33 -
(6x75cl) 2020Deliciously rewarding, the Vina Zorzal Senora de las Alturas 2020 is an embodiment of modern Meaño winemaking. Situated in the Salnés Valley, a distinguished wine-producing region on Spain's Galician Atlantic coast, Vina Zorzal cultivates Albariño grapes on its verdant vineyards. The wine has an appealing golden yellow colour, signalling its maturity. The producer's craftsmanship shines through in the distinctive citrus and floral notes on the nose, followed by a palate that balances well between zesty fruit and fresh acidity, resulting in a memorable finish.
Contemporary techniques employed by Vina Zorzal include careful hand-harvesting and meticulous temperature-controlled fermentation, which ensure the vibrant varietal character is preserved. The founders, who hail from the Moraza family, have harmonised historic winemaking traditions with innovative practices, garnering international acclaim for their Vina Zorzal Senora de las Alturas 2020.
Inc. GSTSG$374.31 -
Wine Advocate (96)
The 2021 Señora de Las Alturas comes from an ancient plot on the gravel and silt soils on the banks of the Alhama River that they call Pontigos that also produces their wine Lecciones de Vuelo that is a collaboration with a different winemaker every year. It fermented in open 1,000-liter pools with 5% Garnacha Blanca followed by malolactic and 15 months' élevage in second use 500-liter French oak barrels. It has moderate ripeness, a medium-bodied palate, moderate alcohol (13.66%) and very fine tannins. There is a turn toward finesse and elegance in all the wines, and it is also noticeable here. This is a wine that feels very consistent too. It's serious and balanced, with elegant notes of flowers, berries and herbs and super fine gained tannins. Superb, and as with many wines, this is their finest vintage to date. 2,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in January 2023.Inc. GSTSG$413.59 -
James Suckling (94)
White peach, apple, pear, crushed stone, smoked almond, asphalt and dried spice on the nose. It’s medium-to full-bodied with bright acidity and a spicy, creamy palate. Long and concentrated. Drink now.Inc. GSTSG$404.89 -
(6x75cl) 2022
Wine Advocate (94)
I tasted the 2022 Regueirón, a single-vineyard Godello from the village of Éntoma on slate and schist soils. It's a much more Burgundian white, with notes of fennel and flowers, very tasty and elegant. It's also a powerful white with impressive aromas and flavors, intensity and depth; it's vibrant and complex, alive, with a pH of 3.1 and 6.8 grams of acidity. They believe the soils are the difference, and character of the wine is very mineral, a little à la Meursault, with purity. It fermented and matured in 500-liter oak barrels, 50% of them new, then they blended the juice and put it into a 2,000-liter foudre for two months. A white of purity, precision and elegance, it's impressive, very young and with aging potential. 2,488 bottles and 60 magnums were filled in August 2023.Inc. GSTSG$302.43 -
Tim Atkin MW (97)
What a début! Even given the distinguished track record of consultant Jean-Claude Berrouet, this is a remarkable wine. Elegant and refreshing, it has very fine tannins, floral top notes, subtle oak and just a hint of leafiness from 10% Cabernet Sauvignon.Inc. GSTSG$551.85 -
Tim Atkin MW (97)
What a début! Even given the distinguished track record of consultant Jean-Claude Berrouet, this is a remarkable wine. Elegant and refreshing, it has very fine tannins, floral top notes, subtle oak and just a hint of leafiness from 10% Cabernet Sauvignon.Inc. GSTSG$868.51 -
Tim Atkin MW (97)
What a début! Even given the distinguished track record of consultant Jean-Claude Berrouet, this is a remarkable wine. Elegant and refreshing, it has very fine tannins, floral top notes, subtle oak and just a hint of leafiness from 10% Cabernet Sauvignon.Inc. GSTSG$824.50 -
Tim Atkin MW (97)
How do you follow up a first release as stunning as the 2016? Simple: make a wine that's every bit as good, albeit from a very different vintage. This multi-zone blend of Tempranillo and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon uses high altitude vineyards in Fuentenebro as its core, which gives it remarkable freshness and lift. The tannins are silky, the oak svelte and aromatic, the fruit sweet and layered, the finish long and engaging. Rapidly confirming itself as one of Spain's best reds.Inc. GSTSG$673.01 -
Vinous (96)
The 2019 Vivaltus hails from Ribera del Duero and was aged up to 12 months in barrel and amphora. Garnet in color, it opens with licorice and wild herbs—laurel and meadow tones—then shifts into black and red fruit, adding complexity. The palate is compact, with reactive fine-grained tannins and a lightly angular structure, finishing with a soft chalky feel. A warmer vintage is evident in the riper fruit and tannin profile. It will evolve more quickly in bottle than the 2018.Inc. GSTSG$646.85 -
(6x150cl) 2009Wine Advocate (90)
The 2009 Celia Vizcarra comes from 57-year-old vines in Mambrilla de Castrejon and is blended with 7% Garnacha, then raised in new 400-liter barrels for 18 months. It has a dense, very pure bouquet with dark cherries, blueberry and a hint of violet that blossoms nicely with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with fine delineation: silky smooth with red cherries, blueberry and orange zest that leads to a refined, caressing finish where the oak is in synch with the fruit. Very fine. Drink 2013-2020.Inc. GSTSG$1,306.69
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In BondSG$1,555.00
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Wine Advocate (95)
No, the 2009 Valbuena is not a current release, but I had a bottle blind at a tasting and most people, including myself, guessed it was a Grand Cru Burgundy, so aromatic, floral, expressive and elegant it was. We couldn't believe it when the wine was revealed. Later, a bottle of the 2010 was opened, and it confirmed it as the best Valbuena of recent times, with a rare combination of elegance and power, combining characters of fine Burgundy and elegant Syrah from the Northern Rhône.In BondSG$847.00 -
(3x75cl) 2010
Wine Advocate (96)
Since the 2010 harvest, they ferment plot by plot, and it shows. This Valbuena has almost 100 components in it, smaller lots, all of them corresponding to a plot of vines. It has all the signs of being one of the best vintages ever for this second wine from Vega Sicilia, mostly Tempranillo but with 5% Merlot that matured five months in 20,000-liter oak vats, 18 months in new barriques (equal parts French and American oak), three months in used barrels and then five months in the vats again before being bottled in May 2013. 2010 seems to have the exuberance of the 2011 and the seriousness and elegance of 2009. It has the Burgundian philosophy of terroir, with all plots fermented and aged separately, giving each vineyard what it needs in terms of vinification and elevage resulting in something like 40 separate lots to blend. This wine has gained in precision and sharpness, and is very pure with delineated aromas and flavors. It is a world-class wine, possibly the best Valbuena ever. 180,000 bottles and some bigger-sized formats were filled. The wine will be released in 2015. Drink 2016-2025.In BondSG$816.00 -
(6x75cl) 2012
Wine Advocate (95)
The 2012 Valbuena was cropped from a vintage with a very dry and warm summer that resulted in very healthy grapes. Since the 2010 vintage, this wine is fermented plot by plot following the findings from a soils study they did. The élevage is in French and American oak barrels that on average lasts some 18 months followed by another 18 months in 20,000-liter oak vats, but of course some lots had more time in barrique and others more time in vat. It has ripe tannins and a powerful mouthfeel but with a soft texture. Even if it's not widely mentioned, it always has had some French grapes, mainly Merlot, but this 2012 is the first Valbuena ever to be really 100% Tempranillo—because the Merlot didn't behave well in this warm and dry year. It follows the path opened by the 2010, more precise and elegant, rounded by that extra time in larger vats to finish polishing the tannins. I find this 2012 halfway between 2010 and 2011. It has depth and elegance, more serious than Alión, which is always the (maybe unfair) comparison. 174,545 bottles and some larger formats were filled in April 2014.In BondSG$1,500.00 -
(6x75cl) 2016
Wine Advocate (96)
The 2016 Valbuena was produced with a blend of 94% Tinto Fino (Tempranillo) and 6% Merlot from 140 hectares dedicated to this wine. It fermented with indigenous yeasts, and the first year it matured in barrels (75% French, 25% American) and the second year in large oak vats. This is again a floral and elegant vintage of Valbuena, very much in line with what has happened in the best vintages since 2010. 2016 is going to be a wine that the public is going to like; it has an extroverted personality and is perfumed and generous, juicy and tasty and nicely textured, with fine-grained tannins and very focused and clean flavors. 2016 was a year of very good freshness in Ribera del Duero, a year they like even better than 2018. 182,882 bottles, 6,030 magnums and a few larger formats were produced. It was bottled in June 2019.In BondSG$1,330.00 -
Wine Advocate (96)
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 liters. 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-liter 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 perfumed, floral, expressive and balsamic like few vintages before. It doesn't feel like a 2017 at all; it is harmonious, and the tannins were fine. It's an amazing Valbuena that clearly transcends the character of the vintage. What I see here is that since 2010, the wine has a very high consistency. And in 2017 it excels. 170,071 bottles, 5,516 magnums and some larger formats produced. It was bottled in June 2020.In BondSG$360.00 -
Wine Advocate (96)
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 liters. 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-liter 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 perfumed, floral, expressive and balsamic like few vintages before. It doesn't feel like a 2017 at all; it is harmonious, and the tannins were fine. It's an amazing Valbuena that clearly transcends the character of the vintage. What I see here is that since 2010, the wine has a very high consistency. And in 2017 it excels. 170,071 bottles, 5,516 magnums and some larger formats produced. It was bottled in June 2020.In BondSG$613.00 -
Tim Atkin MW (97)
Produced entirely with estate fruit since the 1996 vintage, Valbuena combines Tinto Fino with 4% Merlot that's planted in the lower part of the farm close to the Duero river. Showing the structure and focus of the 2018 vintage, this is a scented, complex, savoury red that's just starting to get into its stride, with Mediterranean herb scents, fine tannins and some underlying grip and minerality.In BondSG$737.00 -
(6x150cl) 2018
Tim Atkin MW (97)
Produced entirely with estate fruit since the 1996 vintage, Valbuena combines Tinto Fino with 4% Merlot that's planted in the lower part of the farm close to the Duero river. Showing the structure and focus of the 2018 vintage, this is a scented, complex, savoury red that's just starting to get into its stride, with Mediterranean herb scents, fine tannins and some underlying grip and minerality.In BondSG$2,360.00 -
Tim Atkin MW (96)
Reserva (14.5%) Valbuena nearly always contains a little Merlot, and that's the case on this 2019, which is dominated by 97% Tinto Fino. Aged in a classic combination of French and 15% American oak, it's a bold, layered, well-structured cuvée with blackberry and blueberry fruit supported by good acidity for the vintage, a balsamic undertone, stylish, youthful tannins and plenty of backbone.In BondSG$621.00 -
(1x300cl) 2020
Jeb Dunnuck (97)
The 2020 Valbuena 5° ages five years in oak and bottle, which gives it its name. Harvest was challenging due to Covid and rain, requiring due diligence in the field and a faster, earlier harvest than anticipated, the grapes coming from the Vega Sicilia estate’s vines with about 35 years of age. It’s an ethereal, medium-bodied wine of lovely delicacy and elegance, 97% Tempranillo blended with 3% Merlot, then aged 12 months in French and American oak, six months in stainless steel and then 18 months in bottle. Blackcurrant, cedar, and balsamic highlight a citrusy freshness. It will hit its prime in five years and age another 20-25.In BondSG$1,168.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (97)
The 2020 Valbuena 5° ages five years in oak and bottle, which gives it its name. Harvest was challenging due to Covid and rain, requiring due diligence in the field and a faster, earlier harvest than anticipated, the grapes coming from the Vega Sicilia estate’s vines with about 35 years of age. It’s an ethereal, medium-bodied wine of lovely delicacy and elegance, 97% Tempranillo blended with 3% Merlot, then aged 12 months in French and American oak, six months in stainless steel and then 18 months in bottle. Blackcurrant, cedar, and balsamic highlight a citrusy freshness. It will hit its prime in five years and age another 20-25.In BondSG$709.00 -
Vina Leizaola El Sacramento 2013 is a distinguished expression from the esteemed Rioja region of Spain. Crafted by the venerable Vina Leizaola estate, this wine exemplifies traditional winemaking artistry combined with modern precision. The selection begins with hand-picked Tempranillo grapes from meticulously managed vineyards, ensuring optimal ripeness and quality. Fermentation is carried out in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve the varietal’s pure fruit characteristics. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes a stringent ageing process in a combination of French and American oak barrels for 24 months, allowing it to develop complex layers of flavour and a refined structure. The 2013 vintage presents a deep ruby colour, with an enticing bouquet of dark cherries, plum, and subtle spices, complemented by elegant undertones of vanilla and cedar. On the palate, Vina Leizaola El Sacramento 2013 is full-bodied, showcasing balanced tannins and a persistent, harmonious finish. This wine is a testament to the producer’s dedication to excellence and is ideal for connoisseurs seeking a sophisticated Rioja experience.
In BondSG$121.00 -
(6x75cl) 2013
Vina Leizaola El Sacramento 2013 is a distinguished expression from the esteemed Rioja region of Spain. Crafted by the venerable Vina Leizaola estate, this wine exemplifies traditional winemaking artistry combined with modern precision. The selection begins with hand-picked Tempranillo grapes from meticulously managed vineyards, ensuring optimal ripeness and quality. Fermentation is carried out in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve the varietal’s pure fruit characteristics. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes a stringent ageing process in a combination of French and American oak barrels for 24 months, allowing it to develop complex layers of flavour and a refined structure. The 2013 vintage presents a deep ruby colour, with an enticing bouquet of dark cherries, plum, and subtle spices, complemented by elegant undertones of vanilla and cedar. On the palate, Vina Leizaola El Sacramento 2013 is full-bodied, showcasing balanced tannins and a persistent, harmonious finish. This wine is a testament to the producer’s dedication to excellence and is ideal for connoisseurs seeking a sophisticated Rioja experience.
In BondSG$361.00 -
(1x75cl) 2014
Tim Atkin MW (96)
What a discovery this was! Made by Belgian wine importer, Etienne Cordonnier, who has sold a chateau in St. Emilion to create an estate in Rioja, it’s subtle, stylish, beautifully crafted blend of Tempranillo with 8% Graciano. Serious yet polished, it has established itself as one of the Region’s best reds in the space of four vintages.In BondSG$135.00 -
(1x75cl) 2015
Tim Atkin MW (96)
The latest vintage of Etienne Cordonnier’s wine, made with the help of Rioja legend Jesus Madrazo, is every bit as exciting as the 2014. Now housed in its own winery in Languardia, this is fasting turning into one of the very best producers in the region. Combining Tempranillo with 7% Graciano, it’s wonderfully perfumed and refined with polished tannins, tangy acidity and orange peel and blackberry fruit flavours. Delicious.In BondSG$135.00 -
Tim Atkin MW (96)
The latest vintage of Etienne Cordonnier’s wine, made with the help of Rioja legend Jesus Madrazo, is every bit as exciting as the 2014. Now housed in its own winery in Languardia, this is fasting turning into one of the very best producers in the region. Combining Tempranillo with 7% Graciano, it’s wonderfully perfumed and refined with polished tannins, tangy acidity and orange peel and blackberry fruit flavours. Delicious.In BondSG$413.00 -
Tim Atkin MW (97)
Now established in his own state-of-the-art modern winery and the owner of 19 hectares in Languardia, Navaridas and Lapueble de Labarca, divided into 19 different parcels, Etienne Cordonnier is producing one of Rioja’s most distinguished wines. The 2016 is the best release yet, made from Tempranillo and 8% Graciano and showing scented, floral elegance, fine tannins and subtle wood. Margaux meets Rioja?In BondSG$121.00 -
Tim Atkin MW (97)
Now established in his own state-of-the-art modern winery and the owner of 19 hectares in Languardia, Navaridas and Lapueble de Labarca, divided into 19 different parcels, Etienne Cordonnier is producing one of Rioja’s most distinguished wines. The 2016 is the best release yet, made from Tempranillo and 8% Graciano and showing scented, floral elegance, fine tannins and subtle wood. Margaux meets Rioja?In BondSG$491.00 -
Vina Mayor, Ribera del Duero, Tempranillo Reserva 2019 epitomises the excellence of Spanish winemaking. Crafted in the renowned Ribera del Duero region, this Reserva undergoes meticulous selection of Tempranillo grapes from high-altitude vineyards, ensuring optimal ripeness and complexity. The wine is vinified in stainless steel tanks to preserve its pure fruit character before ageing gracefully for 24 months in French oak barrels, followed by an additional 12 months in bottle. This careful maturation imparts elegant flavours of ripe red berries, plum, and subtle spice, complemented by well-integrated tannins and a long, refined finish. Vina Mayor, celebrated for its commitment to quality and tradition, employs sustainable viticultural practices, resulting in a wine that balances tradition with modern sophistication. The deep ruby hue and harmonious structure make Vina Mayor, Ribera del Duero, Tempranillo Reserva 2019 a distinguished choice for connoisseurs seeking depth and character in every sip.
In BondSG$162.00 -
(6x75cl) 2020
Deliciously rewarding, the Vina Zorzal Senora de las Alturas 2020 is an embodiment of modern Meaño winemaking. Situated in the Salnés Valley, a distinguished wine-producing region on Spain's Galician Atlantic coast, Vina Zorzal cultivates Albariño grapes on its verdant vineyards. The wine has an appealing golden yellow colour, signalling its maturity. The producer's craftsmanship shines through in the distinctive citrus and floral notes on the nose, followed by a palate that balances well between zesty fruit and fresh acidity, resulting in a memorable finish.
Contemporary techniques employed by Vina Zorzal include careful hand-harvesting and meticulous temperature-controlled fermentation, which ensure the vibrant varietal character is preserved. The founders, who hail from the Moraza family, have harmonised historic winemaking traditions with innovative practices, garnering international acclaim for their Vina Zorzal Senora de las Alturas 2020.
In BondSG$284.00 -
Wine Advocate (96)
The 2021 Señora de Las Alturas comes from an ancient plot on the gravel and silt soils on the banks of the Alhama River that they call Pontigos that also produces their wine Lecciones de Vuelo that is a collaboration with a different winemaker every year. It fermented in open 1,000-liter pools with 5% Garnacha Blanca followed by malolactic and 15 months' élevage in second use 500-liter French oak barrels. It has moderate ripeness, a medium-bodied palate, moderate alcohol (13.66%) and very fine tannins. There is a turn toward finesse and elegance in all the wines, and it is also noticeable here. This is a wine that feels very consistent too. It's serious and balanced, with elegant notes of flowers, berries and herbs and super fine gained tannins. Superb, and as with many wines, this is their finest vintage to date. 2,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in January 2023.In BondSG$324.00 -
James Suckling (94)
White peach, apple, pear, crushed stone, smoked almond, asphalt and dried spice on the nose. It’s medium-to full-bodied with bright acidity and a spicy, creamy palate. Long and concentrated. Drink now.In BondSG$318.00 -
(6x75cl) 2022
Wine Advocate (94)
I tasted the 2022 Regueirón, a single-vineyard Godello from the village of Éntoma on slate and schist soils. It's a much more Burgundian white, with notes of fennel and flowers, very tasty and elegant. It's also a powerful white with impressive aromas and flavors, intensity and depth; it's vibrant and complex, alive, with a pH of 3.1 and 6.8 grams of acidity. They believe the soils are the difference, and character of the wine is very mineral, a little à la Meursault, with purity. It fermented and matured in 500-liter oak barrels, 50% of them new, then they blended the juice and put it into a 2,000-liter foudre for two months. A white of purity, precision and elegance, it's impressive, very young and with aging potential. 2,488 bottles and 60 magnums were filled in August 2023.In BondSG$224.00 -
Tim Atkin MW (97)
What a début! Even given the distinguished track record of consultant Jean-Claude Berrouet, this is a remarkable wine. Elegant and refreshing, it has very fine tannins, floral top notes, subtle oak and just a hint of leafiness from 10% Cabernet Sauvignon.In BondSG$468.00 -
Tim Atkin MW (97)
What a début! Even given the distinguished track record of consultant Jean-Claude Berrouet, this is a remarkable wine. Elegant and refreshing, it has very fine tannins, floral top notes, subtle oak and just a hint of leafiness from 10% Cabernet Sauvignon.In BondSG$733.00 -
Tim Atkin MW (97)
What a début! Even given the distinguished track record of consultant Jean-Claude Berrouet, this is a remarkable wine. Elegant and refreshing, it has very fine tannins, floral top notes, subtle oak and just a hint of leafiness from 10% Cabernet Sauvignon.In BondSG$699.00 -
Tim Atkin MW (97)
How do you follow up a first release as stunning as the 2016? Simple: make a wine that's every bit as good, albeit from a very different vintage. This multi-zone blend of Tempranillo and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon uses high altitude vineyards in Fuentenebro as its core, which gives it remarkable freshness and lift. The tannins are silky, the oak svelte and aromatic, the fruit sweet and layered, the finish long and engaging. Rapidly confirming itself as one of Spain's best reds.In BondSG$562.00 -
Vinous (96)
The 2019 Vivaltus hails from Ribera del Duero and was aged up to 12 months in barrel and amphora. Garnet in color, it opens with licorice and wild herbs—laurel and meadow tones—then shifts into black and red fruit, adding complexity. The palate is compact, with reactive fine-grained tannins and a lightly angular structure, finishing with a soft chalky feel. A warmer vintage is evident in the riper fruit and tannin profile. It will evolve more quickly in bottle than the 2018.In BondSG$538.00 -
(6x150cl) 2009
Wine Advocate (90)
The 2009 Celia Vizcarra comes from 57-year-old vines in Mambrilla de Castrejon and is blended with 7% Garnacha, then raised in new 400-liter barrels for 18 months. It has a dense, very pure bouquet with dark cherries, blueberry and a hint of violet that blossoms nicely with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with fine delineation: silky smooth with red cherries, blueberry and orange zest that leads to a refined, caressing finish where the oak is in synch with the fruit. Very fine. Drink 2013-2020.In BondSG$1,080.00
