The estate
Since its acquisition by the Álvares family in 1982, Vega Sicilia has continued to grow and establish its international reputation. An iconic estate, Vega Sicilia originates from the north of Castile, in the wine-growing area of the DO Ribera del Duero, but also extends into the DO Toro appellation in the south of Castile.
Today, a constant search for excellence, a symbiotic harmony with nature, rigour and dedication make this Spanish estate a prestigious reference. Over the years, other wineries like Pintia have embraced and enhanced the philosophy of Vega Sicilia. Thus, the extreme care provided both in the vineyards and throughout the winemaking process leads to the production of fine Spanish wines from the most unique lands.
The vineyard
Situated alongside the Duero River, the 210 hectares of vineyards are divided into three grape varieties: Tempranillo (also known as Tinto Fino), Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. 140 hectares of this vineyard are reserved for the production of the Valbuena and Unico vintages. The entire vineyard is managed in a sustainable manner.
Stemming from exceptional terroirs where the vines are 34 years old on average and are planted on clay-limestone soils, this Unico 2010 by the Vega Sicilia bodega is only revealed following at least 10 years of ageing in barrels, tuns and bottles in the cellars of the estate. This iconic wine from the Ribera del Duero is one of the finest wines, both in Spain and throughout the world.
The blend
This Unico 2010 by Vega Sicilia comprises a blend of Tinto Fino (94%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (6%).
The tasting
Nose
Complex, the nose blends blackcurrant and cocoa fragrances with subtle notes of sweet spices.
Palate
Powerful, this wine seduces the palate with its length and elegance and guarantees an exceptional aging potential.
Service
For an optimal tasting experience, serve between 17 and 18°C.
Storage
This fine Ribera del Duero wine can be enjoyed now, or can also be kept in the cellar until 2065 in order to release its full aromatic richness.
I was surprised by the aromatics of the 2010 Único, cropped from a powerful and concentrated year that delivered this blend of 94% Tinto Fino (aka Tempranillo) and 6% Cabernet Sauvignon, with 14.5% alcohol and a highish pH of 3.87. It fermented with indigenous yeasts and matured in a combination of French and American oak barrels and 20,000-liter oak vats and aged for almost six years. It feels quite ripe and somehow old style, dominated by ripe black fruit, with a rustic and earthy touch. It has an ample palate, concentrated and powerful, with some earthy tannins. 85,185 bottles, 3,362 magnums, 228 double magnums and 36 Imperials were produced. It was bottled in June 2016.