Vega Sicilia and Benjamin de Rothschild Macan

Wine Enthusiast, 93 pts (2017)

2017 was a very challenging year, as most of their vineyards in San Vicente de la Sonsierra in Rioja were affected by frost, unlike others in nearby Laguardia. Not only was it frost, but they also had hail later on in the season. Quantities suffered—they told me they lost 70% of the crop in Rioja that year—but they were happy about the quality of the 2017 Macán, being very careful with the fermentation and separating the press wine by quality. The 4,000-liter oak foudres helped to polish the tannins, and they used 50% new barrels. The élevage lasted 16 moths. It's a little riper than the Clásico from 2018 that I tasted next to it, with a little more alcohol (14.5%) and mellow acidity. It's clearly a weaker vintage, and the wine shows it: the fruit is a little ripe and shows some tiredness, like it's evolving at a faster pace. It has abundant, slightly rustic tannins. It was bottled in September 2019. Quantities reflect the low yields. Best After 2022

Vega Sicilia is a world-renowned winery located in the Ribera del Duero region of Spain. The winery was founded in 1864 and is considered one of the most iconic and prestigious wineries in Spain. Vega Sicilia is known for their high-quality, age-worthy red wines, which are made from a blend of Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot grapes. The winery also produces a white wine made from the Albillo grape. Vega Sicilia's wines are known for their complexity, depth, and elegance, with notes of black fruit, spice, and leather. The winery is committed to traditional winemaking techniques, including extended aging in oak barrels and bottle before release. Vega Sicilia has received numerous accolades and awards for their wines, including being named "Winery of the Year" by Wine & Spirits Magazine. Overall, Vega Sicilia is considered one of the top wineries in the world and is highly regarded for their exceptional wines and unwavering commitment to quality.