Benjamin de Rothschild & Vega Sicilia - Rioja 'Macán Clásico' 2020

Winery Background and History

Macán Clásico is the result of a collaboration between two prestigious wine families: Spain’s Vega Sicilia and France’s Rothschild family. Established in 2009, this joint venture aimed to produce high-quality wines in the Rioja region, combining traditional Spanish winemaking with Bordeaux expertise. The project focuses on showcasing the unique terroir of Rioja, particularly the Sonsierra area, through meticulous vineyard selection and innovative winemaking techniques.

Producer and Winemaker

The wine is produced by Bodegas Benjamin de Rothschild & Vega Sicilia, with Gonzalo Iturriaga serving as the technical director. Iturriaga brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to excellence, overseeing every aspect of production from vineyard management to bottling. His approach emphasizes precision, balance, and the expression of terroir, ensuring that each vintage reflects the unique characteristics of the region.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The grapes for Macán Clásico 2020 are sourced from over 20 parcels in the villages of San Vicente de la Sonsierra and Baños de Ebro. These vineyards are situated on the slopes of the Sierra de Cantabria, benefiting from a continental climate with Atlantic influences. The soils are primarily limestone and sandy-clay, providing excellent drainage and contributing to the wine’s minerality and elegance.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Harvested in early October, the grapes underwent a cold soak for three to four days before fermentation in stainless steel tanks. Malolactic fermentation occurred in both barrels and tanks. The wine was aged for 12 months in a combination of 45% new French oak, 5% new American oak, 28% second-use barrels, and 22% stainless steel. This aging regimen imparts complexity while preserving the wine’s fresh fruit character.

Tasting Notes

Macán Clásico 2020 displays a deep ruby color. The nose offers aromas of pomegranate, cocoa powder, and floral notes. On the palate, it presents flavors of blackberry, mission fig, and rose petal, wrapped in silky tannins. The wine finishes with a touch of orange blossom, showcasing its elegance and balance.

Food & Wine Pairing

This wine pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled lamb, roasted duck, and mushroom risotto. Its acidity and tannic structure complement rich meats and earthy flavors, while its fruitiness balances spicy and savory elements. Cheeses like Manchego or aged Gouda also make excellent companions.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve Macán Clásico 2020 at 16°C to 18°C (60°F to 64°F) in large Bordeaux-style glasses to fully appreciate its aromatic complexity. Decanting for 30 minutes before serving can help open up the wine, enhancing its bouquet and allowing the flavors to integrate seamlessly.

Storage and Aging Potential

Store the wine in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature and humidity. While approachable now, Macán Clásico 2020 has the structure and balance to age gracefully over the next 6 to 8 years, developing additional complexity and depth with time.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Tempranillo

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

14.0%

Scores

• Wine Enthusiast: 95 points

• Wine Advocate: 94 points

• James Suckling: 93 points

• Tim Atkin MW: 94 points

• Wine Spectator: 90 points