Vega Sicilia Unico 2005 (750ML)

96 Points, Luis Gutiérrez, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "2005 was a powerful year, and the wine was kept for longer in bottle and released two years later, after 2007 and 2008, which were more challenging years that produced more delicate wines. On those bases, by the time the 2005 Único was released, it was highly anticipated. The wine is indeed big, powerful, concentrated and quite tannic, but it's also very good. However, it does not reach the finesse of the 2004. Curiously enough, the warmer years seem to have lower alcohol, and this, like 2009 and 2011, wears a 14% on the label. 2,391 magnums were filled in June 2011. Artwork José Guerrero." 01/23

97 Points, Josh Raynolds, Vinous Media: "(fermented in large oak tanks and aged for six years in new French and American oak barriques) Saturated ruby. Explosively perfumed aromas of fresh ripe red fruits, floral oils, pipe tobacco and incense take on sexy vanilla and woodsmoke nuances as the wine opens up. Densely packed yet shockingly lithe on the palate, offering intense cherry liqueur, red currant and spicecake flavors given spine by a core of juicy acidity. Shows superb energy and clarity, finishing sweet, smoky and extremely long; velvety tannins add gentle grip." 5/17

95 Points, James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com: "This has lovely balance and texture, with a smooth and creamy array of blackberries, dried leaves, hazelnuts, praline and cigar box. Medium-to full-bodied with lightly grainy tannins. 94% tempranillo and 6% cabernet sauvignon. Tasted from magnum. Drink or hold." 09/22

96 Points, Sarah Jane Evans, Decanter: "Vega Sicilia note that this vintage, like 2006, needed an additional two years ageing in bottle to present itself at its best. On the nose it promises power, on the palate there a layers of redcurrants and cherry compote. Beneath that lurks notable dryness. Still seems young with that energetic tannin grip. Give it time. Dry winter, dry spring, hot summer bringing an early cycle, before a healthy, early harvest. Yield 25hl/ha. One and a half years in new oak, one year in used barrels, then about two and a half years in large-format tanks. 93,553 bottles, 2,391 magnums, 146 double magnums and six Imperials. Tasted from magnum.

(Drink between 2028-2045)" 09/22