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  • Country ranking ?

    22
  • Producer ranking ?

    3
  • Decanting time

    4h
  • When to drink

    now to 2040

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210 of the almost 1,000 hectares on the Vega Sicilia estate are used for vine growing, featuring 19 different types of soil and 64 plots with very specific characteristics. The influence of the course of the Douro River and time itself have played a key role in the outstanding use of these soils.


40 of these hectares are used to produce Unico, which spends at least ten years between barrel and bottle, representing one of the longest agein...

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The Story

Of the 1,000 hectares making up the Vega Sicilia estate, 210 are used for wine growing, and there are 19 soil-types divided for management purposes into 52 plots with very specific characteristics. The influence of the flow of the river Duero and the passage of time have been vital in forming these soils.

70 of these hectares are employed to produce Unico. A unique, magical estate which, along with extraordinary management of the vineyard, ...

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Wine Information

2012 VINEYARD CYCLE

After a somewhat dry winter, spring began with moderate temperatures and abundant rainfall, with some 70.7 litres falling during April (the initial stages of the vine's budburst), continuing through early May. Temperatures subsequently began to rise through the rest of the month, reaching a temperature of 42 ºC in June (on 26 and 27 June).

It is worth noting that the lack of spring frosts enabled the vineyard to grow ...

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Vintage 2012

SPAIN 2012 VINTAGE REPORT

The Control Board has given the 2012 Rioja vintage the official rating of ‘VERY GOOD’. The global rating reflects the heterogeneous nature of the vintage. The drought affected both grape volume and grape quality in some vineyards but also resulted in a significant quantity of wine of extremely high quality, in line with the wines of the two previous vintages, both rated ‘excellent’.

In general, Rioja’s vineyards...

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Tasting note

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Written Notes

The Vega Sicilia Unico 2012 presents itself with a deep, almost impenetrable garnet color that hints at its concentrated nature. In the glass, it displays remarkable viscosity, coating the sides with slow, elegant legs that speak to its richness.

The bouquet is nothing short of enchanting, offering an intricate tapestry of aromas that evolve with each swirl of the glass. Initially, dark red and black fruits take center stage, with ripe black cherries, blackberries, and plums dominating. These fruit notes are beautifully interwoven with hints of violets, lavender, and dried herbs, giving the wine an alluring floral and herbal complexity. Subtle undertones of cedar, vanilla, and sweet tobacco add depth and sophistication.

 On the palate, Vega Sicilia Unico 2012 is a revelation of complexity and harmony. The dark fruit flavors continue to shine, with an abundance of blackberries and black cherries. There's a remarkable purity to the fruit, which is complemented by secondary flavors of dark chocolate, espresso, and leather. The oak influence is evident but perfectly integrated, contributing to a plush, velvety texture that envelops the senses.

 Full-bodied and impeccably structured, this wine boasts well-defined tannins that are both firm and polished, providing a solid framework for the wine's rich fruit. The acidity is lively and precise, balancing the wine's power with freshness. The result is a wine with impressive depth and longevity.

 The finish is extraordinarily long and persistent, with the dark fruit and spice flavors lingering on the palate. As it slowly fades, there's a sense of elegance and finesse that leaves a lasting impression.

 Vega Sicilia Unico 2012 is a triumph of Spanish winemaking. It showcases the estate's commitment to excellence and tradition. This vintage exemplifies the unique terroir of the Ribera del Duero region and the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into creating a wine of this caliber. While it is already a remarkable wine, it has the potential to age gracefully for decades, becoming even more profound and complex with time.

While Vega Sicilia Unico 2012 is undeniably impressive now, it is a wine that rewards patience. Those who choose to cellar it will be handsomely rewarded, as it has the potential to evolve and improve for 20 years or more. It is a wine to savor on special occasions or as a testament to the artistry of winemaking in Spain.

  • 97p

Berry, smoke, violet and sandalwood aromas follow through to a full, layered palate that shows super polished tannins that are caressing and long. It’s tight and very long. Give it two or three years to soften. Drink after 2023

  • 97p

2012 is a concentrated, juicy, silky, and well-defined vintage. It is an expression that can be enjoyed immediately, but it will become incredible over time.

  • 98p
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Information

Origin

Valbuena, Ribera el Duero
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