2020 Alion Bodegas Alion Ribera del Duero 0.75l

2020 Alion Bodegas Alion - Ribera del Duero
single-vineyard wine

Origin:

Bodegas Alión was founded in 1986 by the Álvarez family, who also run the legendary Vega Sicilia winery. Their goal was to create a distinctive, modern Ribera del Duero—not a second wine, but a distinct project with its own personality . The first vintage appeared in 1991. The vines are planted in Pesquera, Padilla, and Moradillo on calcareous sedimentary soils with sand, gravel, and stones , which ensure good drainage and a balanced water supply. Today, Alión is one of Spain's most recognized Tempranillos, combining Ribera power with Vega Sicilia elegance.

Expansion:

The grapes come from over 30-year-old Tinto Fino (Tempranillo) vines and are carefully selected by hand . After a three-day cold maceration, spontaneous fermentation takes place in oak barrels , followed by malolactic fermentation. Aging takes place for 12–14 months in new French barriques , followed by an additional 15 months in the bottle before release.

Aroma & Taste:

In the glass, the 2020 Alión presents a deep crimson color with violet reflections . Ripe blueberries, blackberries, and prunes are expressed on the nose, underpinned by spicy nuances, chocolate, licorice, and black tea . On the palate, it is powerful, full-bodied, and complex , with rich dark fruit, fine roasted aromas, and the "kiss of oak." The tannins are silky and precisely integrated , and the structure is dense, long, and harmonious. A wine of both great presence and elegance.

Food recommendation:

An ideal accompaniment to grilled or braised beef and lamb , game dishes , or roast duck . It also unfolds its full potential with hearty vegetable dishes or mature hard cheeses. Optimal serving temperature: 16–18°C .

Special features of the 2020 vintage in Ribera del Duero:

2020 was a warm and dry year with intense sunshine , producing powerful, ripe, and concentrated grapes . Thanks to the deep soils, the vines were able to retain sufficient water, allowing the grapes to retain their aromas despite the heat. The result is dense, dark-fruity wines with silky tannins and great aging potential .

Conclusion:

The 2020 Alión is a powerful, elegant Tempranillo that combines the modern style of Ribera del Duero with the nobility of Vega Sicilia. It impresses with its depth, structure, and finesse , demonstrating why it is considered one of Spain's most influential wines.