2013 Vega Sicilia Unico Ribera del Duero 750 ml

There might be no wine more painstakingly made, patiently cellared, and passionately sought after than Vega Sicilia’s Único. Eminent critic Hugh Johnson said “Vega Sicilia is the Latour” of Spain, and their collectible Único has earned a place alongside Grand Cru Burgundy, First Growth Bordeaux, and the cult Cabernets of Napa. 

Único is an investment-grade wine that tends to appreciate in value, and the 2013—aged an incredible ten years in barrel, oak vat, and bottle—is the definition of a world-class wine. It earned 98 points from James Suckling and 97 from Wine Advocate.

The rare nature of Único can be summed up in one anecdote: The British Embassy once tried to secure enough for a royal dinner for Queen Elizabeth II herself. They were granted just four cases from the winery. 

Released at a price that delivers phenomenal value when compared with the only wines on an equal footing with Vega Sicilia—Bordeaux’s First-Growths and well-known cult Napa Cabs—the 2013 edition comprises 97% Tinto Fino (Tempranillo) and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon grown on vines averaging 33 years of age. It aged for ten years in barrel and bottle, a process that started in French and American oak barrels, progressed to oak vats that hold 22,000 liters, then to bottle.  

While this wine could age for close to another 20 years, it’s already hitting its stride now. Showing a deep, concentrated ruby, it blooms from the glass with aromas of rich, dark fruit, lilacs, violets, Claro tobacco, and exotic spices. The mouthfeel is robust yet elegant, with stern tannins framing layers of blackberry, cherry, and plum, plus plenty of minerals.

It’s a must-experience bottle for anyone interested in the world’s great wines.