Vega Sicila Valbuena was inaugurally vintaged in 1915, crafted in the style of the Rioja wines of the day, treated to an extended ageing in oaken vats and bottled to order. The first editions were distributed amongst the upper classes and bourgeoisie, but not for commercial purposes. Originally planned as a gift to friends of Vega Sicilia, Valbuena has since become an icon wine and national treasure.

The Ribera del Duero area enjoys a continental climate with an Atlantic influence. There are 250 hectares of vineyard at Vega Sicilia and yields are strictly limited. All vines are dry grown and hand pruned, giving less than two kilos each. Oak is a critical part of the vinification, forging a true consortium with the wine. It is essential that most of the casks are coopered at the winery itself. Valbuena is a cepage of varying proportions, according to vintage, Tempranillo and Malbec, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, Vega Sicilia Valbuena is treated to maturation in a selection of new and seasoned, French and American oak casks and larger format oak vats for up to three years, followed by two in the bottle before release.