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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 33 years old on average and are planted on clay-limestone soils, this Unico 2009 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 2009 by Vega Sicilia is a blend of Tinto Fino (94%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (6%).
The tasting
Nose
Delicate and delicious, the nose reveals fruity and spicy fragrances as well as flavoursome minty and cocoa notes.
Palate
The palate combines a beautiful power with a rare persistence.
Service
For an optimal tasting experience, serve between 17 and 18°C.
Food and wine pairing
This Unico 2009 by Vega Sicilia will perfectly complement red meats or Spanish cured meats.
I tasted a bottle of the 2009 Único blind and was taken by the freshness, the red fruit notes and the Burgundian-like characteristics of this vintage, which on paper was quite warm and dry. I also tasted the 2009 Valbuena, which is always more approachable, and was blown away by its aromatics. With time in the glass the Único opened up and got closer to the character of Valbuena but with more depth and clout, while showing extremely elegant. I tasted it again in the context of all the wines from the group, and it delivered all that I saw when I tasted it blind. It takes some time to unfurl its aromatic palette, and it feels young and somewhat undeveloped, younger than it is. It has a touch that made me think of the old vintages of Único on the nose but with very polished tannins and a soft mouthfeel that provides elegance. This is a wine that ages for no less than ten years before it's released. 2009 seems like a great vintage for Vega Sicilia, much better than what I anticipated. It should develop nicely in bottle. 74,274 bottles, 3,390 magnums, 209 double magnums and 22 imperials were produced. It has been in bottle since June 2015.