Vega Sicilia & Benjamin de Rothschild - Rioja Macan Clasico 2022

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate

About the wine:

They had to adjust the harvest dates for the grapes used in the 2022 Macán Clásico, prioritizing freshness over density, which resulted in their earliest harvest in the region, beginning on September 11—10 days earlier than in 2021. They also paid close attention to aging in oak barrels to ensure the wood integrated well into the wine, resulting in a juicier, rounder wine—a more hedonistic vintage. It contains perhaps 1% Grenache, up to 6% in some batches, harvested fairly early, or “very green,” according to winemaker Gonzalo Iturriaga. The wine exhibits restrained ripeness and an alcohol content of 14%, a pH of 3.78, and an acidity of 4.75 grams. This is the first year that 100% of the yeasts were wild, and they aged the wine in barrels—only 5% American and 30% used—for 10 months, with 25% in stainless steel tanks. The wine reflects the heat and ripeness of the year, especially when compared to the 2021 Macán I tasted alongside it, but the results are far better than expected: the nose is harmonious, the palate balanced, and the tannins very fine. Overall, it is a triumph over the year’s unfavorable conditions. A total of 236,067 bottles, 2,110 magnums, and a few larger formats were produced. It was bottled in June 2024. 2026–2032

Jancis Robinson

About the wine:

Stylistically, the 2022 vintage continues the estate’s recent evolution toward greater fruit purity. Fresh black fruits dominate—blackberry, black cherry—accompanied by a delicate hint of violet. The tannins are particularly supple on the palate, giving the wine an ease and fluidity that make it one of Tempos Vega Sicilia’s most approachable vintages. Less ripe than the 2021 vintage and with slightly darker fruit notes, it offers a charming balance between fruit and oak, complemented by subtle notes of creamy lactone and pink pepper. A graceful and unpretentious vintage of Macán Clásico. 2026–2036

James Suckling

About the wine:

Well-structured, with notes of fresh blackberries and dark spices. Medium-bodied to full-bodied, with soft tannins that become slightly firm on the medium-long finish. Cellar to allow the tannins to soften. Best enjoyed starting in 2027.