Vega Sicilia is one of the most prestigious and iconic wineries in Spain, located in the Ribera del Duero wine region. It is renowned for producing some of the country's most exceptional and sought-after wines.
The history of Vega Sicilia dates back to 1864 when Don Eloy Lecanda y Chaves, a Spanish winemaking enthusiast, founded the estate. The winery gained prominence under the ownership of the Herrero family and later the Álvarez family, who acquired Vega Sicilia in 1982 and have since overseen its operations.
Vega Sicilia is known for its meticulous vineyard management and commitment to quality. The estate owns extensive vineyards, including old-vine plots, which are primarily planted with the Tempranillo grape variety, known locally as Tinto Fino. These vineyards are located in the Ribera del Duero region, where the continental climate and limestone-rich soils contribute to the unique character of the wines.
The flagship wine of Vega Sicilia is "Único," a red wine that represents the epitome of the estate's winemaking prowess. Único is typically a blend of Tempranillo with a small percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, depending on the vintage. These wines are known for their power, elegance, complexity, and remarkable aging potential. Único is produced only in exceptional vintages and undergoes extensive aging in both oak barrels and bottles before release.
Vega Sicilia also produces other notable wines, such as "Valbuena," a red wine that offers a more approachable and earlier-drinking style compared to Único. Additionally, they produce "Alión," a modern-style Ribera del Duero wine with a higher proportion of new oak and a more fruit-forward expression.
The wines of Vega Sicilia are highly regarded internationally and are considered among the finest in Spain. They have received numerous accolades and consistently command high prices in the market.