About Winery
Vega Sicilia is one of Spain’s most iconic and prestigious wineries, with a rich history dating back to 1864. Here's a brief overview:
Founded by Don Eloy Lecanda y Chaves, a Spanish winemaker trained in Bordeaux, who brought with him French grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. He planted these alongside the native Tempranillo (then called Tinto del País) in the Ribera del Duero region.
The winery gained fame in the 20th century for producing some of Spain’s most celebrated wines, especially its flagship wine, Único, known for its complexity and extraordinary aging potential.
In 1982, the Álvarez family acquired Vega Sicilia, marking a new era of modernization and expansion. Under Pablo Álvarez’s leadership, the winery has maintained its legendary status while also expanding into other regions like Toro (with Pintia) and Rioja.
Despite its name, Vega Sicilia has no connection to the island of Sicily. “Vega” refers to fertile river plains, and “Sicilia” is believed to reference Saint Cecilia, the patron saint of music.
Tasting Notes
The 2018 Tempos Vega Sicilia Valbuena 5° is a refined and expressive red wine from Ribera del Duero, crafted primarily from 96% Tinto Fino (Tempranillo) and 4% Merlot. It presents a deep ruby red color and an intense, complex, and seductive nose with aromas of floral notes, cassis, spice, pepper, and vanilla. On the palate, it is round, fresh, and elegant, with medium tannins, high acidity, and a silky texture. The wine is full-bodied, harmonious, and well-integrated, offering flavors of earth, balsamic, toasty oak, and new wood, finishing with a long, lingering, and flavorful aftertaste
