Wine: Vega Sicilia Único 1955
Winery: Bodega Vega Sicilia (Valbuena de Duero, Valladolid)
Appellation / Zone: D.O. Ribera del Duero
Varietals: Tinto Fino, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Merlot.
ABV: (Not specified)
Winery: Bodega Vega Sicilia (Valbuena de Duero, Valladolid)
Appellation / Zone: D.O. Ribera del Duero
Varietals: Tinto Fino, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Merlot.
ABV: (Not specified)
Winemaking:
Grapes sourced exclusively from estate-owned vineyards. Following alcoholic fermentation, the wine was transferred to large wooden vats (18,000 to 20,000 liters) for malolactic fermentation and an initial aging period of at least 5 years. Subsequently, it was moved to used wooden casks and progressively transferred to older barrels for a total of 10 years. The remainder of its maturation took place in the bottle prior to release. Production was limited to 10,830 bottles (75 cl). (Note: This unit remained in its original state, without re-corking, showing a high fill level).
Grapes sourced exclusively from estate-owned vineyards. Following alcoholic fermentation, the wine was transferred to large wooden vats (18,000 to 20,000 liters) for malolactic fermentation and an initial aging period of at least 5 years. Subsequently, it was moved to used wooden casks and progressively transferred to older barrels for a total of 10 years. The remainder of its maturation took place in the bottle prior to release. Production was limited to 10,830 bottles (75 cl). (Note: This unit remained in its original state, without re-corking, showing a high fill level).
Tasting Notes
Appearance:
Reddish-ruby color with medium-high depth; opaque. Darker than other
vintages from the same era, bearing a resemblance to the 1958 Único.
A significant amount of flaky sediment has tinted the interior of the
bottle. Broad brick-orange rim, showing a sharp contrast against the
meniscus.
Nose: Fragrant, perfumed, and profoundly complex, displaying absolute integrity. One of the few Vega Sicilias
where the hallmark elegance is further elevated by a myriad of
intricate details. Majestic in its delivery, it opens with notes of
exceptionally fine wood, toasted nuances, and smoke. A misty layer of
white spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla—fuses with a deep earthiness
and a nearly imperceptible mineral vein. Its intensity is relentless,
revealing deep, smoky scents of wild herbs.
Palate:
Caressing upon entry, eventually melting entirely into the palate. It
is plush and spherical, offering a remarkably soft mouthfeel with
"cotton-like," velvety tannins and seamlessly integrated acidity. While
it may not reach the same brilliance as the nose, it is technically
flawless. It echoes the fine wood and spiced notes found in the bouquet,
supported by a fresh fruit profile that defies its sixty years of age.
Commentary:
The 1955 Único is a monumental wine currently at its absolute zenith. It possesses a rare combination of structural softness and aromatic intensity that few wines in the world can replicate. It stands as a masterclass in aging, proving that the traditional, long-term wood maturation of Vega Sicilia can result in a wine that remains fresh and vibrant many decades after its birth.
The 1955 Único is a monumental wine currently at its absolute zenith. It possesses a rare combination of structural softness and aromatic intensity that few wines in the world can replicate. It stands as a masterclass in aging, proving that the traditional, long-term wood maturation of Vega Sicilia can result in a wine that remains fresh and vibrant many decades after its birth.
Personal Score: 97
Tasting Group Average: 96
Tasting Group Average: 96
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