"Bright ruby. Intensely perfumed bouquet of red berries, cherry, Asian spices and fresh flowers. Juicy raspberry and candied cherry flavors stain the palate and are given bite by a late note of licorice. Nothing heavy about this, but the fruit is impressively potent and carries through a strikingly long, seductively spicy finish." -Josh Raynolds
Robert Parker
RP92
"The garnet-colored 2005 San Vicente is 100% Tempranillo Peludo that was aged for 20 months in new, predominantly French oak. It yields an expressive nose of spice box, toasty new oak, mineral, espresso roast, violets, and black cherry. On the palate it sports a suave personality with plenty of savory fruit, succulent flavors, serious depth, and a lengthy, pure finish. It will benefit from 3-5 years of additional bottle age and drink well from 2013 to 2025." -Jay S Miller
Wine Spectator
WS94
"Round and rich, with fruit flavors of black cherry and currant, backed by tobacco, spice and licorice notes. The muscular tannins are beginning to soften. Gentle acidity freshens the slightly heady finish. Powerful and expressive."
Wine Enthusiast
WE97
"Talk about a wine that makes you take notice. This is simply great modern Rioja. The nose is creamy but honest, with black fruit, mocha and finely tanned leather. The palate gives the whole range of berry and tree fruits, with expansive tannins and just enough core acidity to make it stunning. Ultra stylish and delicious; another huge success for the Eguren family that owns San Vicente and other Rioja properties."
