Quinta Sardonia Viño de la Tierra de Castilla y León 2005

95 points Jay S. Miller (Wine Advocate): "The 2005 Quinta Sardonia has a slightly roasted character, extra layers of spicy fruit, outstanding concentration, rich, succulent flavors, and lots of power. Give it 5-7 years in the cellar and drink it from 2016 to 2030. The estate’s full name is Vinas de la Vega del Duero but all you need to remember is Quinta Sardonia. Located in Sardon del Duero, just outside the Ribera del Duero demarcation line but close enough for inclusion in this report, Quinta Sardonia is a biodynamic project from Peter Sisseck (of Pingus fame) and Jerome Bougnaud. The estate has about 37 acres under vine planted in 2000. The wine is typically composed of a blend of roughly 50% Tempranillo, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, with the balance Merlot, Syrah, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, and Malbec with aging for 18 months in French oak. It is already being proclaimed by some as Spain’s next cult wine. (Jun 2010)"

94 points Peñín Guide to Spanish Wine: "(48% tinto fino, 26% cabernet sauvignon, 17% merlot, 4% syrah, 3% cabernet franc, 2% malbec). Intense cherry. Powerful, fine, delicate aroma (cocoa, chocolates) with creamy toast and ripe fruit (plums, blackberries). Full, toasty and creamy on the palate with sweet, very flavourful tannins, elegant. (2006)"

92 points Josh Raynolds (Vinous): "Inky violet. Deep, smoky raspberry and cherry compote aromas are enlivened by zesty minerals and fresh rose. Powerful dark berry flavors are sweetened by suave vanillin oak and firmed by dusty tannins. Turns spicier on the long, red fruit-dominated finish, which delivers excellent clarity and persistence. (Sep 2007)"