MARQUES DE MURRIETA, CASTILLO YGAY
RIOJA, SPAIN
Why Buy: Vega Sicilia is the most collected wine in all of Spain, though as serious collectors well know, bottles are confoundingly hard to obtain. That's why we're so excited to bring you this great vertical case, which represents a rare opportunity to explore the evolution of this prestigious label across multiple vintages. Estate-grown, high-elevation collectibles, aged for many years at their famed cellars in Ribera del Duero, and ready-to-drink right now, they all demonstrate impeccable oak integration, structured yet silky tannins, and a layered richness that unveils itself over time in the glass, rewarding patient appreciation.
Our Tasting Notes: This vertical collection showcases the remarkable consistency and stylistic evolution that have made Vega Sicilia's portfolio so coveted among collectors. The Alion wines reveal a house style that balances modern approachability with classical structure — plush dark fruits and polished oak notes are supported by firm, architectural tannins that provide both immediate pleasure and aging potential. As the vintages progress, we note a fascinating evolution toward greater precision and refinement without sacrificing Alion's signature power.
The Story: In our instant-gratification world, Vega Sicilia is a welcome reminder that some things shouldn't be rushed. As Christie's has noted, "Time turns differently at Bodegas Vega Sicilia," with wines rivaling the aging potential of Château Latour or Lafite Rothschild. In the sun-drenched hills of Ribera del Duero, Vega Sicilia stands as a monument to patience and perfectionism. Founded in 1864 by the visionary Don Eloy Lecanda y Chaves, this estate has not just defined Spanish wine-making — it has rewritten the rules of crafting world-class wine. Chaves' bold dream was to rival the great châteaux of Bordeaux. He planted not only the native Tinto Fino (Tempranillo) but also imported Bordeaux varieties — a fusion that would become the estate's signature. Under the Herrero family's stewardship, Vega Sicilia embraced revolutionary practices like small oak barrel aging and estate bottling, elevating it to global renown. In the vineyard and in the cellar, obsessive attention to detail is the m.o., as it has been since the very beginning.
The Aging Process: These wines spend more time in barrels than some people spend in college. Vega Sicilia employs a mix of both French and American oak, with some wines seeing the inside of a barrel for nearly a decade.
What to Pair Them With: All of these wines will go magnificently with a juicy, savory ribeye, a pot of slow-braised lamb shanks, or a board of ripe aged manchego, but make sure, as well, to give yourself the great pleasure of drinking them solo. Pour a glass, find a comfy chair, and let the wine tell you its story.
Fun Fact: When Pablo Álvarez discovered, years ago, that cork taint was affecting some bottles, he didn't just switch suppliers like most would. Instead, he had the estate plant 50,000 cork trees to eventually become self-sufficient – a solution that encapsulates Vega Sicilia's bold and thoughtful approach to quality at every level.
Our Guarantee: We always buy and source direct, so rest assured – your wines will arrive in your hands with pristine provenance. Secure your cases today!
*Offer NOT valid in-store. This offer is made pre-arrival, with wines estimated to be delivered to your preferred store in Spring 2026. With the supply chain issues that we are seeing globally, there may be some unforeseen delays which could affect the ETA. All sale prices are the lowest available at Total Wine & More and ONLY valid through Concierge Sales. No further discounts or coupons may be applied. Offer not valid in KS, LA, MI, NE, NM, NY, OK, TN & WI. This offer will expire on Sunday, January 4th, 2026.