Vega Sicilia Único Reserva Especial 2026 Release ('11, '12, '14) NV

100 points/'Red Wine of the Year 2025,' Tim Atkin, MW: "(14.5%). Great bodegas step up to the plate and deliver perfection on a regular basis. This is the second Reserva Especial release in succession to earn 100 points from me and it's not a score I give lightly. Blended by Gonzalo Iturriaga, it's a seamless, layered assemblage of two hot vintages (2011 and 2012) and one cool one (2014) that is so much more than the sum of its parts. Made with a pre-phylloxera clone of Tempranillo and 4% Cabernet Sauvignon, it's a scented, savoury delight, marrying aromas of mint, baking spices and Mediterranean herbs with a palate of bramble, plum and wild strawberry, subtle French and American oak sweetness, undertones of umami and autumn leaves and a stylish volatile lift. Approachable enough to drink on release, but will grow in stature with further bottle age. World class. 2028-45. (2025)"

99 points Zekun Shuai (JamesSuckling.com): "This is a blend of the concentrated and structured 2011, 2013 (sic) and 2014 vintages. The wine displays impeccable tannins, complexity and length, feeling remarkably complete due to its aging. Expect notes of blackberries, accompanied by a subtle balsamic nuance and high-quality cedar. The wine remains plush yet restrained and layered, showcasing abundant tannins in a melted, dissolved state. Release in 2026. It already drinks beautifully now but will benefit from additional years of aging in the bottle. Drink on release or hold. (7/25/25)"

18/20 points Ferran Centelles (JancisRobinson.com): "A blend of 96% Tinto Fino and 4% Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2026 edition is composed approximately of 35% 2011, 45% 2012, which provides the core and structure of the wine, and 20% 2014, which brings lift and freshness to the base. This is a fully evolved, deeply tertiary wine of noble ageing. The oak imprint is more present than in Único 2016, showing sweet spices, tobacco leaf, cigar box and supple leather. The tannins are exquisitely integrated – fine, silky and seamless – placing the wine in a beautiful plateau of maturity where it is likely to remain for many years. The finish reveals graphite, dried herbs, charred wood and a subtle note of Pu-erh tea on the back palate. Harmonious, contemplative and resonant, this is an orthodox Reserva Especial – a wine that always speaks patience. Drinking Window: 2026-2050. (11/24/25)"