Macabeo, also known in various regions as Viura, is one of Spain's most widely planted white grape varieties. It flourishes primarily in the Rioja and Catalonia regions, lending its character to various esteemed white wine blends. With a naturally high acidity and a bouquet of flavors ranging from green apples to fresh flowers, Macabeo wines are both invigorating and complex. Historically, this grape has been a cornerstone in the production of Cava, Spain's signature sparkling wine. Over the years, wine enthusiasts have grown fond of Macabeo's versatility. It can be aged in oak, providing a richer, more textured flavor profile, or kept in stainless steel to preserve its inherent freshness and zest. This adaptability makes it a favorite among winemakers and ensures that it continues to be a staple in Spanish viticulture.
Macabeo wine is derived from one of Spain's most prominent white grape varieties. Often referred to as Viura in certain regions, this grape is cherished for its ability to produce wines with vibrant acidity and aromatic bouquets. These wines are characterized by their notes of green apple, citrus, and sometimes, a touch of floral aroma. Depending on the vinification method, they can exhibit nuances of honey or fresh herbs. While commonly used as a base for Cava, Spain's signature sparkling wine, the still versions of Macabeo wines offer a refreshing and versatile palate that appeals to a wide array of wine enthusiasts.
The best Macabeo wines predominantly hail from Spain, especially in regions like Rioja and Catalonia. In Rioja, where it's often called Viura, the grape is used to craft both singular varietal wines and blends, often achieving a richer and textured profile. In Catalonia, Macabeo is a principal variety in the production of Cava. Here, its high acidity and subtle fruitiness contribute to the sparkling wine's zest and freshness. The vineyards in these regions benefit from a unique terroir that accentuates the grape's inherent characteristics, making them primary locations for high-quality Macabeo wines.
The popularity of Macabeo wines is often tied to its role in Cava production. As one of the primary grapes used in this sparkling wine, Macabeo brings a lightness and brightness that's cherished by many. In terms of still wines, those from Rioja, where it's labeled as Viura, often garner attention for their balanced acidity and potential for aging. Some top producers in these regions consistently release acclaimed bottles, enhancing Macabeo's reputation on the global stage.
Finding value in Macabeo wines is relatively straightforward due to its wide cultivation across Spain. While premium versions exist, especially those aged in oak or coming from old vines, there's an abundance of young, stainless steel-aged Macabeo wines that are both affordable and of high quality. These wines often exhibit the grape's quintessential freshness and fruit-forward profile, making them perfect for daily consumption or casual occasions.
The versatility of Macabeo wines allows them to pair beautifully with a diverse range of dishes. Their crisp acidity makes them an excellent match for seafood, especially dishes like grilled shrimp, calamari, or light fish preparations. The wine's subtle fruitiness complements salads with citrus dressings, and it can also be paired with light poultry dishes. For those enjoying Macabeo in its sparkling form as Cava, it's an ideal accompaniment for tapas, cheeses, or even sushi, enhancing the overall dining experience.
We aim to have all wines be vintage specific. In the case the listed vintage is out of stock and you note you would like that particular vintage, we will inform you via email for approval to go ahead.
Delivery Times
To be able to supply such a unique & extensive range of boutique wines, we don't hold much of the inventory. So with us, there is the added step of receiving the wine from our local suppliers before it is dispatched to you. Most orders are dispatched within 3-6 working days.
Quality Guarantee
Replacement or refund offered if bottles are faulty or damaged. All our deliveries are insured against loss, however you must notify us in a reasonable amount of time.
Sending a Gift
If you would like to include a gift message with your order, please enter that in the order instructions section. We'll print your message in a lovely font on A5 paper. We also won't include the invoice. Tracking will be sent to the email on file.
We aim to have all wines be vintage specific. In the case the listed vintage is out of stock and you note you would like that particular vintage, we will inform you via email for approval to go ahead.
To be able to supply such a unique & extensive range of boutique wines, we don't hold much of the inventory. So with us, there is the added step of receiving the wine from our local suppliers before it is dispatched to you. Most orders are dispatched within 3-6 working days.
Replacement or refund offered if bottles are faulty or damaged. All our deliveries are insured against loss, however you must notify us in a reasonable amount of time.
If you would like to include a gift message with your order, please enter that in the order instructions section. We'll print your message in a lovely font on A5 paper. We also won't include the invoice. Tracking will be sent to the email on file.