Vega Sicilia : Unico 2013

The creaminess and complexity of a great Ribera del Duero wine

The estate

Since its acquisition by the Álvares family in 1982, Vega Sicilia has continued to grow and establish its international reputation. Vega Sicilia is legendary, with its origins in the north of Castille, in the winegrowing area of the DO Ribera del Duero, but it also extends into the DO Toro appellation in the south of Castille.

Today, a continual pursuit of excellence, harmony with nature, hard work and unfailing commitment make this Spanish estate a prestigious name. Over the years, other wineries like Pintia have come to embrace and enhance the Vega Sicilia philosophy. Thus, the extreme care taken in the vineyards as well as in the vinification process is the sign of great Spanish wines from unique lands.

The vineyard

Bordering the river Duero, the 210 hectares of vineyards are divided into three varieties: Tempranillo (otherwise known as Tinto Fino), Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. 140 hectares of this production are reserved for the production of the Valbuena and Unico vintages. The entire vineyard is managed in a sustainable manner.

From exceptional terroirs with a total surface area of 40 hectares, whose vines are 33 years old on average and are planted at an altitude of 700 to 900 metres on clay-limestone soils, this Unico 2013 from the Vega Sicilia winery is only revealed after at least 10 years of ageing in the winery's cellars. This legendary wine from Ribera del Duero is one of the greatest wines in Spain and the world.

Winemaking and ageing

This iconic wine was developed in French barrels (some new), American oak barrels and large wooden vats.

Blend

Tempranillo / Tinto Fino (97%)
Cabernet sauvignon (3%).

Characteristics and tasting tips for Unico 2013 from Vega Sicilia

Tasting

Nose
Intensely aromatic, the nose releases fruity (blackcurrant, blackberry, blueberry) and grilled scents but also those of cocoa powder and mocha. As the wine is aerated, notes of aromatic herbs (sage, thyme, dried rosemary) as well as incense and gingerbread are revealed.

Palate
Full and expressive, the palate releases delicious grilled and fruity notes until a lingering finish.

To serve

For the best tasting, serve at 18°C.

Food and wine pairing

This great Ribera del Duero wine pairs perfectly with a Barbary duck breast.

Storage

This Unico 2013 from Vega Sicilia can be enjoyed today, and can be laid down until around 2073 to unveil all its aromatic palette.