Viniou Reviews
Alión 2020 is an illustrious red wine from the renowned Ribera del Duero DO, located within the Castille and León region of Spain. Crafted solely from Tinto Fino, the local name for Tempranillo, this wine showcases the commitment to quality and expression emblematic of the Alión estate, which belongs to the prestigious Vega Sicilia family. The 2020 vintage benefited from a generous summer with optimal warmth and sunshine, ensuring perfectly ripe, concentrated fruit. Vinification here includes careful selection of grapes, fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, and ageing for approximately 12 to 14 months in French oak barrels, which imparts both complexity and well-integrated tannins. The result is a wine that combines luscious dark cherry and blackberry fruit, hints of violet, and subtle notes of cedar, sweet spice, tobacco, and cocoa, finishing with a supple texture and elegant persistence.
The Ribera del Duero region sits on Spain’s northern plateau, with vineyards sprawling along the banks of the Duero River at altitudes between 700 and 900 metres. This area is defined by its continental climate, characterised by hot, dry summers and cold winters, with significant diurnal temperature swings. These conditions, coupled with predominantly chalky, clay and sandy soils, produce powerful yet structured Tempranillo wines capable of great ageing. The history of winegrowing in Ribera del Duero stretches back centuries, and since gaining its DO status in 1982, it has rapidly become one of Spain’s most prestigious and sought-after appellations.
Given the wine’s depth and elegance, Alión 2020 pairs beautifully with robust, flavourful dishes. Traditional Castilian roast lamb or suckling pig would be exquisite, as would grilled beef, duck breast with black cherry sauce, or richly sauced game dishes like venison stew. Hard, mature cheeses such as Manchego, or a plate of Iberian charcuterie, will also complement its spicy profile and silky tannins.
For optimal enjoyment, decant Alión 2020 for at least an hour to allow its complex aromatics to unfold. Serve it at a temperature of 16-18°C to enhance its bouquet and textural finesse. This wine is ready to drink now but will continue to develop gracefully over the next decade if cellared in suitable conditions.
