Grupo Vega Sicilia Alion

This 2016 Alión checks the boxes for all things that make a good wine. Produced by the revered Vega Sicilia winery, this wine, produced in 2016, was aged in new oak barrels. In order to remove more of the oakiness from the wine, they completed the aging process in 15,000-liter concrete vats. The result? The floral and fruity tones shine through more distinctly. This wine was bottled in 2018 and was made available in 2020. Drinking after 2022 is advised to give this wine a little more time to age.

The wine is bold, but not overpowering. It has soft edges, reminiscent of a mature wine that has had time to develop. It has strong tannins that can be softened by a little extra time in glass and in bottle. It is dry and slightly acidic, but softened by the slight sweetness presented by the fruity tones of the wine. To the eye: A deep ruby red with stunning violet streaks. Very pleasing to the eye. To the nose: notes of dark fruit, earth, and cedar come through. On the palate: Cedar, a slight oakiness, but notes of dark berries and plums shine through. Afterthoughts of chocolate and tobacco are present.

This beautiful wine is a very easy drink. The perfect beverage for a warm night overlooking a field or on a balcony watching the city. The perfect companion for simply observing. Pair this wine with a cheese platter with a mix of soft cheeses, sharp, aged mahon and manchego; for cured meats, chorizo, salchichón, and jamón. For a palate cleanser, sweet red grapes provide a wonderful balance between the acidity and sharpness of the pairing.

Storage Instructions

Store your unopened bottle in a cool, dry, and dark place safe from constant vibration. Keep your bottle horizontal in a wine rack or cellar to retain the moistness of the cork. The ideal temperature for storage is between 7 to 15°C. Once opened, a bottle will be good for 3 to 5 days standing upright in the refrigerator.