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Tasting notes
Two bottles tasted, both directly from the estate's reserves. The first in January 2012 was the better of the two, exhibiting more exuberant aromatics with pain grille and Chinese 5-spice and respectable fruit concentration on the palate that could not disguise some dryness creeping in on the finish. The second bottle in June 2012 showed more advancement on the nose, although there was a signature burning ember scent noted on both. Here, the wine was a little drier and evinced a comparatively high proportion of Bordeaux grape varieties. It is an impressive wine for its age, but it is a couple of steps off from its drinking plateau. 12,150 bottles produced. Drink now.
Critic scores
Average Score
Neal Martin
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Lustrous dark ruby with wonderful evolution. Mint is the top note. Great breadth of fine fruit. Quite staggering to think of the circumstances in which this marvel was made. This must be the best 1942 ever. So vital and straight backed with real refinement. Such purity. Race and line par excellence. Keeps opening out on the finish. (JR)
This is one of the legendary vintages of Vega Sicilia, the oldest the bodega still considers to be sound. 75% Tinto Fino, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Merlot, Malbec and Albillo. Only 12,500 bottles were produced, but the winery seems to have a good supply of them as it is routinely shown in every big tasting. There's not a lot of reliable data about the weather but 1942 was also one of the greatest vintages in Rioja. Forest floor, truffle, porcini mushrooms, some volatility, a little porty. The mouth is unbelievable, with tension and freshness, great personality. Much better in the mouth than on the nose. Drink up. (LG)
Very, very heady cocktail of a nose. Again, very lifted, this time smelling of cheese and animals but not unpleasantly so, believe it or not. I had tasted a 1945 Riscal rioja the day before and noted that this seemed much less sweet but more concentrated. Old but dense, perfectly clean and healthy and still vigorous. Quite an achievement. I can't think of any other 1942 I have even drunk let alone enjoyed. (JR)
About the producer
Vega Sicilia is undoubtably Spain’s most famous winery; a true icon in fine wine with a history dating back to 1864.