Wines Ribera del Duero Pagos del Rey - La Única - 2012

Viniou Reviews

The 2012 Pagos del Rey Cuvée La Única is an exceptional red wine from the renowned Ribera del Duero DO in Castile and León, Spain. This limited-edition cuvée is typically crafted from old-vine Tempranillo, locally known as Tinto Fino or Tinta del País, and may occasionally be blended with small quantities of other indigenous varieties, although the focus remains on the expressive character of Tempranillo. The 2012 vintage benefited from a warm, dry growing season, which helped to concentrate the fruit and tannins, resulting in a wine of depth and structure. Ageing often occurs in a combination of French and American oak, enhancing the wine’s complexity with layers of sweet spice, cedar, and leathery notes, without overpowering the signature dark cherry and black plum fruit typical of great Ribera del Duero.

Ribera del Duero lies along the banks of the Duero River on Spain’s northern plateau, at altitudes often exceeding 800 metres above sea level. The region’s soils, a blend of limestone, marl and clay with pockets of gravel, provide excellent drainage for the vines and contribute both freshness and intensity to the wines. A marked continental climate prevails, with hot summers, cold winters, and notable diurnal temperature variation, allowing grapes a long, slow ripening process. This unique combination of factors shapes Ribera del Duero’s reputation for robust reds with both power and finesse, and the area’s winemaking history dates back to Roman times, although it has only risen to international fame in recent decades.

For food pairings, the structure and depth of La Única beg for dishes of equal character. Traditional Castilian roast lamb (lechazo asado) is a classic accompaniment, as the wine’s rich tannins cut beautifully through the succulence of the meat. Hearty stews, grilled or braised beef, or aged Manchego cheese all provide excellent complements, as do dishes featuring wild mushrooms or black truffle.

When serving, decant La Única for at least an hour to allow its aromas to open fully. The ideal tasting temperature is 16-18°C; at this range, the wine’s fruit expression, fine tannins and oak nuances will be shown at their best. This is a wine that will reward patient sipping and contemplation alongside a carefully chosen meal.