Vega Sicilia, one of Spain’s most famous and legendary wine estates, is located in Ribera del Duero, in the Valbuena de Duero in the province of Valladolid, Castilla y Leon. Founded in 1864 by Don Eloy Lacanda y Chaves, who brought cuttings of Bordelaise varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot, and Pinot Noir from Bordeaux, the estate changed hands several times before it was purchased in 1982 by the Alvarez family. This marked the beginning of one of the most prosperous periods in the history of the company.

A large estate of nearly 1,000 hectares, just 210 hectares are planted to vines which have been grown on the Vega Sicilia estate for over a hundred years. The vines, with an average age of 35 years, are planted to three varieties: Tempranillo (80%), Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, and are used to produce Vega Sicilia Unico and Valbuena, as well as wine for their sister property, Bodegas Alion.

Founded on an unwavering commitment to quality and the pursuit of excellence, Vega Sicilia’s guiding principle is that “the best wine is still to be made”.

Unico is Vega Sicilia’s flagship wine, made from varying proportions of Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon. Each provides a differentiating factor that makes the wine great in every vintage.

Unico remains true to a clear and well-defined style, with an inimitable character, elegance, and strength. It has a unique and timeless quality that has elevated it among the aristocracy of the great classic wines. Infinitely complex, the wine is silky and elegant, with an aging capacity that only a handful of wines in the world can claim.

The 2008 Vega Sicilia Unico is a remarkable red wine from the prestigious Ribera Del Duero region in Spain. With its deep, garnet color and intense aromas, this wine exudes elegance and complexity. The label, adorned with a captivating artwork by Lucio Muñoz, hints at the artistry that lies within the bottle.

On the nose, the 2008 Unico offers a bouquet of savory flavors, including tobacco, mineral, smoke, and spice. These savory notes frame a core of cherry and pomegranate, creating a harmonious and graceful aroma profile. As you take your first sip, you will be greeted by a wine that is expressive and drinking well now, despite its young age. The fine tannins provide structure and balance, while a touch of rusticity adds character and intrigue.

This vintage of Unico was produced during a cold year, with the vineyard even experiencing frost in September. Despite these challenges, the winemakers at Vega Sicilia have crafted a wine that showcases the unique terroir of the region. With an alcohol percentage of 14.5%, this wine has a medium-to-full-bodied mouthfeel that lingers on the palate.

The 2008 Unico has received high praise from wine critics. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded it a score of 94, commending its juicy profile and fine tannins. Wine Spectator also rated it 94, highlighting its deceptive depth and complexity. Decanter, on the other hand, awarded it an impressive score of 97 and described it as a "jewel" with a smooth velvety texture and a finish full of complexity. James Suckling also gave it a score of 97, noting its firmness and medium-to-full-bodied nature.

This wine is a true gem for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Its unique style, complexity, and aging potential make it a must-try for any wine lover. Enjoy it now or cellar it for a few more years to witness its evolution and further development of flavors.