Alión 2021 Wine: the harmony of Ribera del Duero
Alión 2021 represents the contemporary essence of Ribera del Duero — a wine born from the balance between tradition, innovation, and diversity. Made from a selection of vineyards stretching from the easternmost areas of the appellation (Soria) to the western end in Valbuena de Duero, this red wine stands out as a mosaic of landscapes, soils, and nuances. Each plot contributes its own personality, and together they form the complexity that gives life to one of Spain’s most renowned wines.
At Licorea, we believe that Alión 2021 perfectly reflects the maturity of a winery that has managed to preserve its identity within the Vega Sicilia group while developing its own modern, precise, and elegant expression. It’s a wine that balances the character of Ribera del Duero with a fresh, refined interpretation of Tempranillo, where fruit and texture take centre stage.
A vintage defined by balance and serenity
The 2021 vintage was one of the most harmonious in recent memory across Ribera del Duero. From the beginning of the growing cycle, the weather supported the vines’ development with almost artisanal precision. Autumn and early winter were mild, with no severe frosts until December, allowing the vines to enter dormancy in optimal conditions. In January, storm Filomena blanketed the vineyards in snow, with temperatures dropping to -15 ºC, purifying the environment and providing essential water reserves for the rest of the cycle.
Spring brought evenly distributed rainfall and an early bud break in April, followed by a hailstorm that locally affected Pesquera de Duero but did not compromise the overall harvest. Summer was slightly cooler than usual, allowing for a slow and complete ripening process. The wide temperature fluctuations between day and night in September enhanced freshness and aromatic definition. The result: grapes with crisp skins, noble textures, and an exceptional richness of nuance.
Winemaking and ageing: precision and respect for the grape
At Alión, every winemaking decision aims to preserve the purity of the fruit and express its origin. The vinification process is meticulously controlled from vineyard selection to final blending. Fermentation takes place in cement tanks, which help maintain a natural temperature and preserve aromatic integrity. The wine then undergoes ageing in barrels and large oak vats, where the different parcels are harmoniously integrated.
During this stage, both new and used French oak barrels from various cooperages are employed, adding layers of complexity without overpowering the Tempranillo’s fruit character. The result is a silky, deep, and enveloping texture — a wine where every detail is cared for with precision to achieve the balance that defines the 2021 vintage: mature yet fresh, powerful yet elegant, contemporary and timeless at once.
A modern expression of Ribera del Duero
Alión 2021 stands out for its clean, refined character. It embodies a modern interpretation of the Castilian vineyard, where fruit expression is clear and oak plays a supporting role rather than taking the lead. Its balance between structure and softness makes it a versatile wine, ideal with everything from red meats and traditional stews to more contemporary international cuisine.
At Licorea, we highlight that this vintage has something special: a common thread connecting all wines from the region, yet with its own distinctive signature. The winery has successfully merged Ribera’s geographic contrasts — from the sandy soils in the east to the limestone ones in the west — to create a red wine that’s both complete and expressive. It is, in short, the vintage of balance, silkiness, and depth.
Cellaring and ageing potential
This wine is at an ideal stage for enjoyment yet boasts extraordinary ageing potential. Alión 2021 is ready to drink now, but it can also be cellared in perfect condition for over 20 years if kept between 12 and 14 ºC (54–57 ºF) and at 60% humidity. Its structure and balanced acidity ensure a slow, noble evolution that will further enhance its complexity over time.
For optimal enjoyment, serve at 18 ºC (64 ºF) in a wide glass, allowing the wine to breathe for a few minutes before tasting. This simple gesture enhances its bouquet and reveals the finesse of its texture. Alión 2021 is a wine that invites you to pause, to savour without haste, and to be carried away by its harmony.
Limited production and bottling
The production of Alión 2021 was tightly controlled, the result of a precise grape selection and a winemaking process aimed at excellence. In total, 244,244 Bordeaux bottles were produced, along with 7,075 magnums, 600 double magnums, 80 imperials, and 5 salmanazars. Each format reflects attention to detail and the desire to offer unique experiences depending on time and occasion.
Bottling took place in June 2023, after a period of cellar refinement that allowed the wine to reach perfect balance before release. This careful process ensures that each bottle preserves the character of the vintage and the elegance that defines Alión.
A jewel that symbolizes the diversity of Ribera del Duero
Alión 2021 is more than just a wine — it is a statement of identity. It is born from the union of multiple terroirs that, assembled with patience and precision, reflect the full diversity of Ribera del Duero at its finest. Its style combines Castilian strength with almost minimalist elegance, where fruit purity serves as the guiding thread. It is a wine meant to evolve, yet equally captivating in its youth, radiating serenity through every sip.
At Licorea, we consider it one of the most complete and coherent references in Spanish winemaking. Alión 2021 is undoubtedly one of those treasures that true lovers of Ribera del Duero wines must discover. Its balance, texture, and depth make every glass a unique sensory experience — the result of a vintage that will long be remembered.
