Macabeo
White wine grape variety
Also known as Viura
Macabeo is a white wine grape with signature aromas of beeswax, lemon peel, fennel. Structure: Medium body, Medium(+) acidity, Medium alcohol. Often confused with Airen and Chardonnay.
Recognition cues
First checks
- Look for apple-lemon profile with moderate aromatic intensity.
- Check for subtle fennel-almond tones before assigning Chardonnay (#2455) or Pinot Blanc (#9272).
Confidence signals
- Apple and fennel markers
- Medium texture with medium-plus acidity
Aromas
Signature
Common
Occasional
Commonly confused with
Classic anchors
- Classic regions: Rioja · Penedes · Roussillon
- Classic styles: Rioja blanca blending white · Fresh cava base white grape
Common questions
Is Macabeo a red or white grape variety?
Macabeo is a white wine grape variety.
What does Macabeo smell and taste like?
Signature aromas of Macabeo include beeswax, lemon peel and fennel. Structural profile: Medium body, Medium(+) acidity, Medium alcohol.
What blind-tasting cues distinguish Macabeo?
Documented tells for Macabeo: Look for apple-lemon profile with moderate aromatic intensity. and Check for subtle fennel-almond tones before assigning Chardonnay (#2455) or Pinot Blanc (#9272)..
What is Macabeo most often confused with in blind tasting?
Macabeo is most commonly confused with Airen, Chardonnay and Trebbiano Toscano. Resolve the call with structure and signature aromas.
Where is Macabeo grown?
Classic regions for Macabeo include Rioja, Penedes and Roussillon.