Vega Sicilia Unico   Unico

2012 Unico

By Vega Sicilia Unico

2012 Unico from Vega Sicilia, Ribera del Duero, Spain

The 2012 Unico, a grand cuvée from the celebrated Vega Sicilia, serves as an enchanting testament to the fine crafting of wine in the historic region of Ribera del Duero. Holding 40 years on my palate has acquainted me with countless expressions of Unico, but there's something truly alluring about the qualities of this 2012 vintage.

 

A Dubious Weather, A Miraculous Work of Art

The climatic narrative of 2012 was a twisting tale of challenges—they had to contend with aridity, below-average rainfall and some frosty spells. However, the harvest was miraculously timely, sparing the vineyard from devastating frosts and resulting in a wine that’s both sophisticated and rewarding—an investable wine that portrays the triumph of masterful winemaking amid adversity.

For 2012 Unico, Tinto Fino (Tempranillo) rules supreme at 95%, with an ornamental touch of Cabernet Sauvignon. As always, Vega Sicilia demonstrates a discipline in ageing—this vintage spent ten years ripening in a gentle ballet between wood and bottle.

 

Valuable Velvety Elegance

The 2012 Unico manifests an exquisite juxtaposition: while it carries an intense ruby hue suggesting boldness and vigour, its bouquet hints at supreme grace—a symphony of ripe black fruits caressed by whispers of mocha and sweet spices.

This dichotomy continues on to the taste where one experiences a powerful entry on the palate balanced by smooth tannins—just sublime in their velvety elegance. Tasting the 2012 Unico is like listening to an orchestra play; different notes come together to form a masterpiece—a lingering finish of autumnal fruits coupled with new leather, clinching its position as one of the crown jewels of Spanish wines.

Overall, the 2012 Unico from Vega Sicilia is an investment-grade wine that promises to hold its value. Its harmonious complexity and poised power are testament to the winery’s unwavering dedication over decades towards achieving perfection. A compelling bottle from a challenging year, this wine is a testament to resilience and adaptation—hallmarks of an investable choice for the discerning collector.

Market price (GBP)

£3,050.00

12x75cl

Highest score

0

POP score

N/A

Vintage performance