Vega Sicilia Único 1989 Magnum

Wine: Vega Sicilia Único 1989 Magnum
Winery: Bodega Vega Sicilia (Valbuena de Duero, Valladolid)
Appellation / Zone: D.O. Ribera del Duero
Varietals: 80% Tinto Fino, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon.
ABV: 13.5% vol.

Winemaking

Upon completion of fermentation, the wine remained for 2 years in large wooden vats. It was then racked into new 225-liter oak barrels for a 16-month aging period, followed by 24 months in semi-new barrels. The process continued with 3 years in used barrels, concluding its extensive elevage with a final 3-year stint in large wooden vats. The remainder was spent in the bottle until its commercial release starting in 2003. Limited production of 105,860 standard bottles, 2,632 magnums, and 150 double magnums.

 

Tasting Notes

 

Appearance: Garnet-cherry color with medium-high depth; dark, opaque, and remarkably clean, with no sediment and a profound sense of youth. It almost stains the glass. Featuring brilliant reddish, violet, and orange reflections. The rim is tiny and brownish.

 

Nose: Surprising upon pouring. Powerful, direct, and raw, it is dominated by primary aromas: flower petals, hyacinth, hibiscus, morello cherries, and an abundance of ripe red fruit. This youthful exuberance is perfectly compatible with an overall profile that grows increasingly elegant as it breathes. High-quality toast, premium oak, a hint of leather, wilted roses, and a backdrop of ground peppercorn potpourri. While the quality is evident, it has yet to reach its expected full display. The impression is that it still needs to be tempered by further bottle age. Opened prematurely.

 

Palate: More resolved on the palate. Full, mature, and round, showing no jagged edges. It is tempered by a refreshing acidity and a core of fresh fruit. The tannins remain firm. It possesses all the plush, "mullida" characteristic of Vega Sicilia. It will require at least another 15 years before reaching its full peak. Whether it will reach the heights of the 1960 or 1962 Único is doubtful; there is excellent raw material here, but it is not worth "executing" it at this stage.

 

Commentary

The 1989 Magnum is a titan still in its formative years. The extraordinary condition of the cork—elastic and barely stained—is a masterclass in quality control. Although the nose hints at a wine that was opened too soon, the palate reveals the legendary structure and opulence typical of the estate. A serious, well-built red with a long life ahead, though it currently lacks the transcendental complexity of the historic vintages from the 1960s.

 

Personal Score: 94
Tasting Group Average: 95