# Macán Benjamin de Rothschild Vega Sicilia 2019 (2019)

- **Producer:** Bodegas Benjamin de Rothschild Vega Sicilia
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Tempranillo
- **Region:** Rioja, Spain
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €85
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** raspberry, black plum, ripe fruit, black cherry, cloves, vanilla, cedar, leather, tobacco, earth

## About this wine

Macán Benjamin de Rothschild Vega Sicilia 2019 is a 100% Tempranillo red wine from the Rioja DOCa region of Spain. It is produced by Bodegas Benjamin de Rothschild & Vega Sicilia, a joint venture formed in 2004 by Tempos Vega Sicilia and the Barón Edmond de Rothschild Wine Company. The project aims to offer a modern interpretation of Rioja wines, drawing inspiration from the Bordeaux winemaking model. The vineyards are situated in the foothills of the Sierra Cantabria, on high terraces with gravelly, calcareous clay soils, and the vines average 35 years of age. The 2019 vintage was characterized by warm, dry weather, with late September rains aiding grape texture. The name 'Macán' is derived from the local inhabitants of San Vicente de la Sonsierra.

## Interesting facts

- Macán is a joint venture established in 2004.
- The name 'Macán' is inspired by the local inhabitants of San Vicente de la Sonsierra.
- The project follows a Bordeaux model of a first and second wine.
- Vines average 35 years old, contributing to grape concentration.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium-full body and fine-grained tannins are well-suited to complement the protein and fat in red meats, creating a balanced palate. The wine's inherent savory notes and potential subtle oak influence can harmonize with roasted herbs and earthy flavors found in many classic dishes.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Macán Benjamin de Rothschild Vega Sicilia 2019 begins with grapes sourced from mature plots, averaging 35 years old. Fermentation occurs in stainless steel vats, with a focus on gentle, infusion-like techniques, sometimes using indigenous yeasts. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, both new and used, with some American oak also utilized. The 2019 vintage was managed with careful attention to harvest timing, influenced by warm, dry weather and beneficial late September rains that helped refine grape texture.