Vega Sicilia, Tempranillo, "Reserva Especial," Ribera del Duero, Spain NV

One of the iconic Spanish wines would be Vega Sicilia from Ribera del Duero in Central Spain. Vega Sicilia was founded in 1864 by Don Eloy Lecanda y Chaves. After a trip to Bordeaux, he brought cuttings of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, although he realized that Tempranillo was producing superior wine and modified the vineyards to about 80% Tempranillo. Since its inception, Vega Sicilia has been owned by 5 different families, the last of which, the Alvarez Family, acquired the property in 1982. Their flagship wine is Vega Sicilia Unico, which is aged until they believe is ready to be enjoyed- though with great aging potential for decades after the harvest.

Vega Sicilia is one of Spain's iconic wine houses and instrumental for the recognition of Ribera del Duero. Reserva Especial is a blend of Unico from some of the best vintages. The 2025 release is a blend of the 2011, 2012 and 2013 vintages that was bottled in May 2021.