Vega Sicilia Valbuena 1993

Deep ruby with a bricking rim that signals its age. Cassis and licorice anchor the nose, though a damp, earthy undercurrent takes some time to blow off. On the palate it's firm and somewhat austere, a green, slightly vegetal edge runs through the wine and never fully retreats, even with extended air, which does coax out modest warmth and a touch of dark fruit sweetness. Tannins are dry and gripping rather than giving. The finish holds on with decent length, trailing off with a vanillin note from the oak. A conscientious effort given the difficult vintage, but Valbuena's characteristic generosity and flesh are largely absent here.