Vega Sicilia Unico 2014

Unico is one of Spain’s most iconic reds and the latest vintage in a superb run of Unico releases – the 2014 is a finely judged cuvée of Tempranillo (known locally as Tinto Fino) and 6% Cabernet Sauvignon. The essence of unico is its aging (up to five years in barrel and large oak vats, and additional years in bottle), and as a result the wine is poised, complex and self-assured.

“The 2014 Unico is primarily composed of Tempranillo with an additional 6% dash of Cabernet Sauvignon, both sourced from the eponymous property in Ribera del Duero. Aged at length in barrels and large oak vats, the combination of aging methods brings out the wine’s nuances in what was a generous year. The aromas offer licorice and cedar notes alongside hints of orange peel, petit four, cola and pine. There’s a background of ripe dark fruit. The palate is dry and plush with a chalky texture and supple tannins, contributing to the complex character. A nuanced red just at the beginning of its life.” 97 points, Vinous