1973 Unico Gran Reserva
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Tasting notes
The 1973 Único was quite a surprise, lively, even better than the 1975, with more balance. The blend this year was 60% Tinto Fino, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Merlot, Malbec and the white Albillo Mayor. The wine matured in oak containers of different sizes and ages until it was bottled in April 1984. 90,000 bottles and 1,500 magnums produced. Artwork by M. Villaseñor. Sometimes these less-heralded vintages with less ripeness and higher acidity have aged surprisingly well...
Critic scores
Neal Martin
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
60% Tinto Fino, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, Malbec and Albillo. Very irregular harvest. After 1 year in wooden tank the wine was transferred to 576-litre wooden cask. In September 1976 it was placed in new casks until November 1977 when it was moved to old casks, where it remained until bottling in April 1984. 90,000 bottles and 1,500 magnums. From magnum. Layered and sumptuous. The best 1973 ever? (Though I see I gave Krug Collection 1973 tasted in 2007 a score of 20.) Long and reverberant; so much intricacy and great balance. (JR)
Rather overlooked because of 1970’s reputation. This wine did very well in a major retrospective. Looks fully mature – mid depth of ruby. Slight hint of oxidation but lots of fruit with great integrity there too. A certain dryness but very sincere. Some lift and raciness. Absolutely at its peak. Again, very clean and fresh on the finish. (JR)
Two bottles of 1973 Unico were tasted in January and June 2012, though I felt the former showed better. The first bottle is soft and mellow on the nose with leather, dark plum, Xmas cake and mulberry, whilst the peppermint-tinged palate demonstrated wonderful symmetry before it faded rapidly on the finish. The second was more foursquare and conservative on the palate with touches of bay leaf and gravel. Yet the palate bore similarities with a tart, fresh finish that again, just needs a little more length. Fine. 90,000 bottles produced. Drink now-2025. Aug 2012, www.robertparker.com
About the producer
Vega Sicilia is undoubtably Spain’s most famous winery; a true icon in fine wine with a history dating back to 1864.