Bodegas Benjamin de Rothschild & Vega Sicilia ‘Macán Clásico’ Rioja 2018
Product Information
Country Spain
Region Rioja
Grape Variety Tempranillo
Vintage 2018
ABV 14%
Premium Rioja Tempranillo Crafted for Elegance & Ageing
The Macán Clásico Rioja 2018 is a refined Spanish red wine from the prestigious Rioja DOCa, collaboratively produced by Bodegas Benjamin de Rothschild & Vega Sicilia. Made from 100% Tempranillo grapes sourced from high-altitude Sonsierra vineyards, this Rioja vintage exemplifies freshness, subtlety, and complexity in a medium-bodied yet structured style.
Wine Details
• Region: Rioja, Spain
• Grape: Tempranillo
• Vintage: 2018
• ABV: ~14%
Wine Profile & Key Characteristics
Tasting Notes
The Macán Clásico Rioja 2018 opens with a deep garnet hue, followed by an expressive nose of blackcurrant, raspberry, and subtle milk chocolate. On the palate, expect concentrated dark fruit flavours like cassis and plums, complemented by nuances of cocoa, tobacco leaf, and espresso bean, all supported by fleshy, fine tannins and a lingering finish. Critics note its elegant fruit profile and balanced structure.
Body, Style & Palate
• Style: Dry red wine
• Body: Medium-to-full
• Texture: Ripe fruit core with smooth tannin grip
• Finish: Long, fruit-driven with spice resurgence
The cooler 2018 vintage preserved good acidity and freshness, giving the wine a refined and approachable character while retaining ageing potential.
Critics’ Scores & Reviews
Wine Enthusiast 97/100 – Deep fruit, elegant finish
James Suckling 94/100 – Attractive fruit, fine tannins
Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate 94/100 – Harmonious & textured
These scores reflect broad critical acclaim, placing the 2018 Macán Clásico among the most compelling Rioja releases of its generation.
Vintage & Winemaking Insights
The 2018 season in Rioja was cooler with abundant rainfall, leading to a delayed but careful harvest (early October). Grapes were hand-picked, gently fermented in stainless steel with partial malolactic completion in oak, then matured 12–14 months in a mix of new and used French and American oak. This approach preserves fruit vibrancy while imparting complexity.
Ageing & Cellaring
Under optimal cellar conditions (≈ 12–14 °C, 60% humidity), this wine has the potential to age gracefully for 10–15 years, evolving tertiary notes such as leather, tobacco, and forest floor, while retaining energy and freshness.
Food Pairing Suggestions
Perfect Matches for Macán Clásico Rioja 2018:
• Grilled lamb chops with fresh herbs
• Slow-roasted beef with rosemary
• Manchego and other mature Spanish cheeses
• Rich mushroom risotto
The balanced acidity and fruit profile make it versatile with roasted meats and tomato-based dishes.
Serving Recommendations
• Optimal Serving Temp: 16–18 °C
• Decanting: 1–2 hours beneficial for full aroma development
• Glassware: Large bowl red wine glass to showcase complexity
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What grapes are in Macán Clásico Rioja 2018?
A. It is made exclusively from Tempranillo, the flagship red variety of Rioja.
Q. Is this wine suitable for ageing?
A. Yes, with optimal cellaring, it can age 10+ years, gaining complexity while maintaining balance.
Q. How does it compare to the flagship Macán? A. Macán Clásico is typically more approachable in youth with subtle oak and freshness, while the flagship Macán often shows greater density and longevity.
Why Choose Divine Fine Wines for Macán Clásico Rioja 2018
Divine Fine Wines offers expert curation, secure shipping across the UK, and a selection of rare Rioja vintages, making us a trusted source for premium Spanish wines.
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