Vega Sicilia - Ribera del Duero Alion 2020

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate

About the wine:

The 2020 vintage was drier than average until harvest, when rain diluted the grapes, which had to wait to regain their concentration. As a result, Alión 2020 is a fresher, more balanced wine. They felt that the skins were very ripe and that they could extract more and use a little more American oak (4%) in the aging. From 2019, they kept the press wine separate until June, and they keep separate quantities of press wine that are aged in different containers depending on the quality of the wine. They used a percentage of concrete and oak vats for aging, which gives the wine more verticality and freshness. This is a subtle, elegant Alión, less dense than other vintages, but with fine balance and very elegant tannins. 2025-2035

Vinous A. Galloni

About the wine:

Alión 2020 is made from grapes from different plots in Padilla de Duero, Valbuena de Duero and Pesquera de Duero. It is aged in barrels and foudres, with a small proportion in concrete tanks. Garnet-red color. Aromas are characterized by sour cherry and blackberry notes, as well as wild herbs and undergrowth. The palate is dry and chalky, with a slight freshness and a rich, taut feel that precedes a polished, soft, long and complex finish. This is Vega Sicilia's modern approach to Ribera del Duero. 2025-2040

James Suckling

About the wine:

This red shows finesse and refinement with aromas of blackberry, black olive, iron and baked earth. The palate is medium to full-bodied, with slightly chewy tannins and a savory finish. It will soften nicely with age. Try it after 2025.

Guia Penin

About the wine:

Bright cherry color, complex, expressive aromas, spicy, mineral, red fruit, balsamic, elegant palate, full, long, persistent.