2006 Vega Sicilia, Unico, Ribera del Duero DO 1x750ml

Robert Parker 96

The 2006 Unico has always been a bit of a mystery to me, as I always felt it transcended the vintage character, and this magnum was not an exception. 2006 was very warm, but the wine remains fresh and has a moderate 14% alcohol. It has some grainy tannins, but it’s really very good. 2,552 magnums were filled in June 2012. Artwork by Antoni Tapies. [Luis Gutiérrez, 31/01/2023]

Anticipated maturity: 2018-2034

Vinous 97

Saturated ruby. An amazingly complex array of red and blue fruit preserve, spice and floral scents is accompanied by suggestions of incense, pipe tobacco, coconut and candied licorice. Utterly stains the palate with impressively concentrated yet lively, smoke- and spice-laced cherry compote, blueberry, fruitcake and violet pastille flavors braced by a spine of juicy acidity. Sappy and broad on the endless finish, which shows outstanding thrust and dusty tannins that are absorbed by the wine’s densely packed fruit. [Josh Raynolds, 09/02/2021]

Anticipated maturity: 2025-2040