Vega Sicilia, one of Spain’s most famous and legendary wine estates, is located in Ribera del Duero, in the Valbuena de Duero in the province of Valladolid, Castilla y Leon. Founded in 1864 by Don Eloy Lacanda y Chaves, who brought cuttings of Bordelaise varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot, and Pinot Noir from Bordeaux, the estate changed hands several times before it was purchased in 1982 by the Alvarez family. This marked the beginning of one of the most prosperous periods in the history of the company.

A large estate of nearly 1,000 hectares, just 210 hectares are planted to vines which have been grown on the Vega Sicilia estate for over a hundred years. The vines, with an average age of 35 years, are planted to three varieties: Tempranillo (80%), Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, and are used to produce Vega Sicilia Unico and Valbuena, as well as wine for their sister property, Bodegas Alion.

Founded on an unwavering commitment to quality and the pursuit of excellence, Vega Sicilia’s guiding principle is that “the best wine is still to be made”.

The 1985 Vega Sicilia Unico is a proprietary blend hailing from the prestigious Ribera Del Duero in Castilla y Leon, Spain. Produced by the renowned Vega Sicilia, this red wine is presented with a slightly bin-soiled label, a minor flaw that should not detract from its overall quality.

This vintage is a testament to the meticulous winemaking practices of Vega Sicilia, a producer known for its exceptional and long-lived wines. The wine is sealed with a traditional cork, preserving its complex character and allowing it to age gracefully over the years.

The 1985 Unico is a blend of several varietals, although specific details are not provided, it typically includes Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, and possibly Merlot or Malbec, as is customary for Vega Sicilia's proprietary blends. This combination results in a wine that is both powerful and elegant, showcasing the unique terroir of Ribera Del Duero.

Reviewers have praised the 1985 Unico for its remarkable balance and depth. While specific reviews are not provided in this summary, it is worth noting that Vega Sicilia Unico wines generally receive high acclaim from wine critics around the world. The 1985 vintage is no exception, often highlighted for its rich, layered flavors and impressive aging potential.

Typically, such wines exhibit a deep red color with a bouquet featuring dark fruits, leather, cedar, and spices. On the palate, one can expect complex flavors of blackberry, plum, tobacco, and hints of vanilla, all underscored by well-integrated tannins and a long, persistent finish.

In conclusion, the 1985 Vega Sicilia Unico is a classic example of an aged Spanish red wine that continues to capture the attention of wine enthusiasts and collectors. Despite the slightly bin-soiled label, this wine remains a valuable addition to any cellar, promising a sophisticated and memorable tasting experience.