2018 Benjamin de Rothschild & Vega Sicilia Macan

Vintage: 2018

Region: Rioja

Country: Spain

About Winery

Vega Sicilia is one of Spain’s most iconic and prestigious wineries, with a rich history dating back to 1864. Here's a brief overview:

Founded by Don Eloy Lecanda y Chaves, a Spanish winemaker trained in Bordeaux, who brought with him French grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. He planted these alongside the native Tempranillo (then called Tinto del País) in the Ribera del Duero region.

The winery gained fame in the 20th century for producing some of Spain’s most celebrated wines, especially its flagship wine, Único, known for its complexity and extraordinary aging potential.

In 1982, the Álvarez family acquired Vega Sicilia, marking a new era of modernization and expansion. Under Pablo Álvarez’s leadership, the winery has maintained its legendary status while also expanding into other regions like Toro (with Pintia) and Rioja.

Despite its name, Vega Sicilia has no connection to the island of Sicily. “Vega” refers to fertile river plains, and “Sicilia” is believed to reference Saint Cecilia, the patron saint of music.

Tasting Notes

Since its acquisition by the Álvares family in 1982, Vega Sicilia has continued to grow and establish its international reputation. Today, a continual pursuit of excellence, harmony with nature, hard work and unfailing commitment make this Spanish estate a prestigious name. Over the years, other wineries like Pintia have come to embrace and enhance the Vega Sicilia philosophy. Thus, the extreme care taken in the vineyards as well as in the vinification process is the sign of great Spanish wines from unique lands.

The wine

Macán de Vega Sicilia & Rothschild is a Rioja wine that is the result of a close Franco-Spanish collaboration between two distinguished winemaking institutions. Initiated in 2004, the joint venture between Vega Sicilia and Compagnie Vinicole Baron Edmond de Rothschild brings out all the nuances and complexity of Spain's finest terroirs in wines made from a meticulous plot selection.

Tasting

Nose
Intense and aromatic, the nose releases fruity and balsamic scents.

Palate

The palate delights with its structure and complexity. Scents of blackberries, blackcurrant jelly, plum jam and cherries mingle harmoniously with vanilla, spice and grilled notes. Throughout the tasting the palate unveils subtle notes of freshly ground coffee, dried Mediterranean herbs and a delicious graphite hint at the finish.

This 2018 vintage is made from grapes from the San Vicente de la Sonsierra, Ábalos, Elvillar and Leza plots.