Bodegas Benjamin de Rothschild & Vega Sicilia ‘Macán’ Rioja 2018
Product Information
Country Spain
Region Rioja
Grape Variety Tempranillo
Vintage 2018
ABV 14%
The Macán Rioja 2018 is a standout release from the collaboration between Bodegas Benjamin de Rothschild & Vega Sicilia, two of Spain’s most respected wine names. Crafted from exclusively selected Tempranillo fruit grown on high-altitude, gravelly calcareous soils, this Rioja presents a masterful balance between Old World finesse and modern elegance.
Harvested in a season marked by cooler, wetter weather, the 2018 vintage captures heightened freshness and purity of fruit, complemented by layered spice and fine tannic structure. The wine is balanced for both immediate enjoyment and extended cellar ageing.
Key Details
Vintage: 2018
Region: Rioja DOCa, Spain
Grape: 100% Tempranillo
ABV: ~14%
Body: Medium-Full
Style: Elegant, structured Rioja
Drink Window: 2025–2040+
Serve: 16–18 °C
Wine Critics’ Scores & Tasting Notes
James Suckling: 95 points — complex spice, cedar, blackberry, and plum depth.
Wine Advocate (Robert Parker): 94+ — elegant structure with finesse and harmony.
Wine Enthusiast: 94 — cassis, plum, cocoa and baking spice.
These ratings place Macán 2018 in the highly recommended to superb category among Rioja wines.
Detailed Tasting Profile
Appearance: Deep garnet red with youthful clarity, promising both immediate appeal and cellaring potential.
Nose: Intense and layered with fresh dark berries, cedar, spice rack complexity, and subtle earthiness. Hints of mocha and violet add perfume to the bouquet.
Palate: A refined palate featuring blackberry and plum fruit, supported by fresh acidity and well-integrated oak spice. Grippy but polished tannins lead into a persistent finish showing espresso bean, dried mint, and bitter almond nuances.
Finish: Long and elegant, harmonising fruit, oak, and mineral texture, excellent with richer Spanish fare.
Cellaring & Serving Tips
• Cellaring: Best drinking window is 2025–2038+, will gain complexity with age.
• Decanting: Recommended 60–90 minutes for maximum aromatic impact.
• Temperature: Serve at 16–18 °C to unlock the full spectrum of flavours.
Food Pairing Suggestions
• Iberico ham & Manchego — highlights savoury depth
• Grilled lamb rack — complements firm tannins
• Mushroom risotto — enhances earthiness
• Beef short ribs — matches structure and richness
Why This Rioja is Exceptional
Heritage & Winemaking
Macán is the fruit of a unique collaboration between two wine powerhouses known for meticulous vineyard selection and terroir-driven wines. The 2018 vintage reflects this dedication: lower yields, strict sorting, and long élevage refine both power and precision.
Terroir Expression
Tempranillo vines grown on high terraces produce fruit with concentration and freshness, while gentle oak ageing contributes texture without overpowering natural characteristics.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is Macán Rioja 2018 ready to drink?
A: Yes, this wine is approachable now, but its structure suggests it will continue to improve over the next decade or more.
Q: What grapes are used in this wine?
A: 100% Tempranillo, sourced from mature vineyards in Rioja.
Q: What foods pair best with 2018 Macán?
A: Ideal with roasted lamb, beef dishes, aged cheeses, and rich stews.
Q: How does Macán differ from Rioja Reserva or Gran Reserva?
A: Macán represents a modern interpretation of premium Rioja, focussed on fresh fruit expression, balanced oak, and elegant structure, whereas Reserva/Gran Reserva styles follow stricter ageing classifications.
Discover our range of Vega Sicilia wines.
