Vega Sicilia Unico Reserva Especial release 2012 (1991/1994/1999)

I must confess that I am not such an ardent supported of the Reserva Especiale as others. It is not that I dislike the blend, but I find it less intellectual satisfying without a temporal “anchor” i.e. vintage. This 2012 release of Unico Reserva Especiale is a blend of 1991, 1994 and 1999. It has an immediately seductive bouquet of macerated cherries, lavender, marmalade and candied orange peel. It has wonderful definition and purity. The palate is medium-bodied with lush, rounded tannins on the entry. Vibrant dark berries, maraschino, orange peel and a dash of Chinese 5-spice all vie for attention, whilst the finish is elegant, sensual and beautifully defined. This is very alluring and for want of a better word?sexy. Drink 2013-2025+

The Reserva Especial is the wine with the greatest personality, it combines the complexity of the Único multiplied by different vintages and provides us with a huge range of aromas, pure elegance in a never-ending flow through the magic of a myth. Only the best Únicos are used to produce Reserva Especial; a mix of years, virtues, experiences and sentiments that serves only to profile the most profound essence of a unique and unrepeatable style, the Vega Sicilia style.