Macabeo
(Viura, Macabeu)
Macabeo, also known as Viura in the Rioja region of Spain, is a white wine grape variety widely grown in Spain and parts of southern France. Native to Spain, Macabeo is most commonly known by this name in Catalonia and other Spanish regions, while in Rioja, it is called Viura.
It is also grown in southern France, particularly in the Languedoc-Roussillon area. Extensively cultivated in Spain, especially in Rioja, Catalonia, and Valencia, Macabeo is also found in the Languedoc-Roussillon region of France, where it is often blended with other white varieties.
Macabeo produces wines that are light to medium-bodied with fresh acidity, often exhibiting floral and fruity aromas, including notes of green apple, pear, white peach, citrus, and white flowers. When aged, particularly in oak, Macabeo wines can develop more complex flavors such as honey, nuts, and vanilla. Read more
This versatile grape can be used to produce a range of wine styles, including still, sparkling, and fortified wines. In Rioja, it is often blended with other white varieties to make white Rioja wines, and it is one of the primary grapes used in the production of Cava, Spain's renowned sparkling wine.
Macabeo pairs well with a variety of foods due to its fresh acidity and light to medium body, complementing seafood, salads, poultry, and light pasta dishes. Aged Macabeo wines can pair well with richer dishes, including creamy sauces and grilled vegetables.
The grape is relatively late-ripening and thrives in both hot and cool climates. It is resistant to oxidation, which makes it suitable for both early consumption and aging. Macabeo is often vinified in stainless steel to preserve its fresh and fruity character, though, in some regions, it is aged in oak barrels to add complexity and depth to the wine.
This versatile grape variety produces fresh, aromatic wines that are enjoyed both young and aged, reflecting the diverse terroirs of the regions where it is cultivated.
