2020 VEGA SICILIA BODEGAS Y VINEDOS ALION, RIBERA DEL DUERO SPAIN

The 2020 Bodegas y Viñedos Alión is a modern and elegant red wine from the Ribera del Duero region of Spain, produced by the iconic Vega Sicilia estate. Made entirely from Tinto Fino (Tempranillo), it combines tradition and innovation to create a vibrant, structured, and age-worthy wine.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep garnet with purple reflections.
• Aroma: Intense aromas of ripe blackberries, cassis, and dark cherries, complemented by spices, cedar, and a hint of tobacco.
• Palate: Full-bodied with velvety tannins, showcasing flavors of dark fruits, licorice, and cocoa. A balanced acidity leads to a long, persistent finish.

Accolades:

• James Suckling: 96 points - "A generous, ripe, and layered wine with power and finesse."
• Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: 95 points - "A full-bodied, intense expression of Ribera del Duero with impeccable balance."
• Wine Spectator: 94 points - "Elegantly crafted with a seamless integration of fruit and oak."
• Vinous: 94 points - "Polished and structured, with excellent aging potential."
• Decanter: 93 points - "A benchmark modern style for Ribera del Duero."

Winemaking Details:

• Grape Variety: 100% Tinto Fino (Tempranillo).
• Vineyards: Grapes sourced from estate-owned vineyards with an average vine age of 30 years.
• Aging: Aged for 14 months in new French oak barrels, followed by 12 months in the bottle.
• Alcohol Content: 15%.

Food Pairing: This wine pairs beautifully with roasted lamb, grilled ribeye steak, duck confit, and aged Manchego cheese. It also complements earthy dishes like wild mushroom risotto or truffle pasta.

The 2020 Alión is a powerful yet refined wine that reflects the mastery of Vega Sicilia, offering a contemporary expression of Ribera del Duero’s rich terroir and perfect for cellaring.