History Alión - Vega Sicilia
A few years after the purchase of Vega Sicilia in 1982, the Álvarez family thought about creating a new estate where a different wine would be made, with a new philosophy – which excluded the use of the same winery. Creating a second wine at Vega Sicilia was not the idea. In 1987, an estate with 25 hectares of vines was bought in Padilla de Duero; the following year, 18 more hectares were planted on it. This fell short of the initial objective (100 ha), but good vines are hard to find in the region, so the family decided to plant some more vines on the Vega Sicilia estate. There was room enough, since only 250 ha of the total 1,000 hectares are under vines. Then the Álvarez went looking for a modern cellar in the vicinity. It was found some years ago in Peñafiel: Bodegas Liceo, a brand-new winery with all the equipment the family needed. On November 5th 1992, the deal was made, and Alión founded. Its name is a reminder of the origins of David Álvarez, born in Alión, in the province of León. The first wine was sold in 1995: Alión 1991. Immediately, it was recognised as one of Spain’s best wines, nationwide and internationally. In 2000, the bodega was modernised. Today, Alión is iconic for both Ribera del Duero and Spanish wine in general. Year after year, it is a safe value to stock in your cellar. This project illustrates the main principles of the Álvarez family: seriousness and righteousness.