Professional reviews
Robert Parker (97)
1986 delivered a definitely old style and classical Vega Sicilia with the 1986 Único. Tasted from a magnum, it has abundant notes of paprika, very Bordeaux-like (apparently it contained an unusually high 25% Cabernet Sauvignon to complement the majority of Tinto Fino, or Tempranillo) and with the customary 13.5% alcohol from the era. The tannins are very fine, which make it very elegant. This is delicious to drink now. 2,000 magnums produced. Artwork by Esteban Vicente.
Winespectator (95)
Muscular but not overbearing, this big Spanish red marries ripe fruit and plenty of oak, with a nice mix of plum, chocolate, licorice and spice flavors backed by firm, well-integrated tannins. Harmonious and long on the finish, it's stylish yet with traditional character.
James Suckling (98)
Gorgeous nose of figs, currants, coffee, oregano, lemon peel and anise. Very classy and elegant, with a medium body and focused layers of wild fruit and herbs. I like the herb undertones to the powerful dark fruit. Beautiful freshness and poise, with an endless finish. 75% tempranillo and 25% cabernet sauvignon.
Jancis Robinson (19)
75% Tinto Fino, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon. Hot and dry summer with harvest beginning 8 October in ‘fantastic’ conditions. Malo in large wooden tanks then, after 12 months, transferred to new and second-use casks for another 12 months, then used casks for 5 years. 62,748 bottles, 2,000 magnums, 102 double magnums. From magnum.
Mid to pale ruby. Really lively and exciting on the nose. It doesn’t taste bordelais but has real richness and the savoury tobacco leaf of Tempranillo. Really rather a thrilling wine! Perfect balance and still great life to it. Maybe the fruit is just starting to give way to acidity but it’s a wonderful whole now. (JR)
Rene Gabriel (19)
Rene Gabriel rates this wine 19/20 points.
BOW (8.50)
