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Robert Parker Wine Advocate
Vinous
1990 Vega Sicilia Unico – Spain’s Iconic Gran Reserva from a Benchmark Vintage
The 1990 Vega Sicilia Unico Gran Reserva stands as a testament to the enduring greatness of Spain’s most storied estate. As the flagship wine of Vega Sicilia, Unico is crafted to age for decades, and this rare release from the 1990 vintage demonstrates extraordinary depth, complexity, and refinement. Sourced from the estate’s oldest vines in Ribera del Duero, this is a benchmark Gran Reserva that continues to captivate collectors worldwide.
Tasting Notes
After more than three decades of development, the 1990 Unico offers a sophisticated bouquet of dried cherry, cedar, cigar leaf, and leather, layered with hints of balsamic, warm spices, and forest floor. The palate is harmonious and velvety, with softened tannins, vibrant acidity, and remarkable length. Secondary and tertiary notes unfold in waves, rewarding extended aeration.
Winemaking & Vineyard Details
Unico is a field blend dominated by Tempranillo (Tinto Fino) with a smaller portion of Cabernet Sauvignon. It undergoes an exceptionally long élevage: extended fermentation in large oak vats, followed by over a decade of aging in a mix of French and American oak barrels and foudres, then further bottle aging before release. This rigorous process gives Unico its legendary longevity and layered complexity.
Investment & Collectibility
Vega Sicilia’s Unico has no equal in Spanish fine wine investment. The 1990 vintage is one of the greatest releases of the late 20th century, long held back by the estate and released with perfect maturity. Its rarity, pristine provenance, and extended development make it a prized acquisition for serious collectors of rare wines and iconic European reds. Perfect for your collection.
Vintage Insights
The 1990 growing season in Ribera del Duero was marked by favorable conditions—ample sun, balanced rainfall, and cool nights. These factors contributed to grapes of exceptional phenolic maturity and balance, allowing Vega Sicilia to craft a wine that has aged gracefully over decades. This vintage continues to be one of the finest Unico releases from the early modern era.





