Catalonia - Wineries and Vineyards
Bodegas Torres
Bodegas Torres, located in the Penedès region, is one of Spain’s most iconic and internationally recognized wineries. Founded in 1870, this family-owned winery has grown into one of the largest and most influential wine producers in the world. Torres is known for its innovation and sustainability efforts, producing a wide range of wines from traditional Catalan varieties as well as international grapes. Visitors can explore the historic estate, enjoy guided tours through the vineyards, and participate in tastings that showcase their renowned wines like Mas La Plana and Viña Sol. The winery also offers gourmet experiences and cultural events, making it a top destination for wine lovers.
Clos Mogador
Clos Mogador is a prestigious winery in the Priorat region, established by the visionary winemaker René Barbier. Known for its powerful, complex red wines, Clos Mogador was one of the pioneers in revitalizing the Priorat DOQ and has played a key role in putting this region on the global wine map. The vineyard’s steep, terraced slopes are planted primarily with Garnacha, Cariñena, and Syrah, which thrive in the region’s unique 'llicorella' slate soils. Tours and tastings at Clos Mogador provide an in-depth look at the meticulous winemaking process, from vine to bottle, and offer a chance to sample some of the finest wines from the region.
Codorníu
Codorníu is one of the oldest wineries in Spain and a cornerstone in the history of Cava production. Located in Sant Sadurní d’Anoia in the Penedès region, Codorníu has been producing sparkling wine since 1551. The winery’s modernist architecture, designed by Josep Puig i Cadafalch, is a historical and cultural landmark. Codorníu offers guided tours of its cellars, where visitors can learn about the traditional method of making Cava. The experience includes tastings of their renowned sparkling wines, which are known for their elegance and finesse. Codorníu’s rich history and stunning setting make it a must-visit for those interested in the heritage of Catalan wine.
Alvaro Palacios
Alvaro Palacios is one of Spain’s most celebrated winemakers and a key figure in the revival of the Priorat region. His eponymous winery produces some of the most sought-after wines in Spain, including L’Ermita, a flagship wine that regularly receives high scores from critics. The winery is located in Gratallops and focuses on producing terroir-driven wines from old-vine Garnacha and Cariñena. The steep, slate-covered vineyards are farmed organically, and the wines are known for their intensity, complexity, and aging potential. A visit to Alvaro Palacios offers an opportunity to experience the passion and precision that define his approach to winemaking.
Recaredo
Recaredo is a family-run winery in Sant Sadurní d’Anoia, specializing in producing high-quality, long-aged Cava using biodynamic farming practices. Founded in 1924, Recaredo is committed to creating wines that express the character of their vineyards, with a focus on natural viticulture and minimal intervention. The winery is renowned for its meticulous attention to detail, with all their Cava being aged on the lees for an extended period, resulting in complex, elegant sparkling wines. Visitors can tour the historic cellars, learn about the traditional method, and taste some of Recaredo’s finest Cavas, making it a highlight for sparkling wine enthusiasts.
Gramona
Gramona is one of the most respected names in the Penedès region, particularly known for its long-aged Cava and commitment to sustainability. The family has been making wine since 1881, and today the winery is a leader in organic and biodynamic viticulture. Gramona’s sparkling wines are celebrated for their depth, complexity, and longevity, often aged for decades before release. The winery offers guided tours that take visitors through their vineyards, historic cellars, and production areas, concluding with a tasting of their exceptional Cavas. The focus on quality and tradition makes Gramona a must-visit for those interested in premium sparkling wines.
Clos Figueras
Clos Figueras is a boutique winery in the Priorat region, established by Christopher Cannan, a renowned wine merchant. The estate produces high-quality red and white wines that reflect the unique terroir of Priorat, with a focus on low yields and organic practices. The winery’s signature wines, such as Clos Figueres and Font de la Figuera, are known for their elegance and balance. Visitors to Clos Figueras can tour the vineyard, learn about the winemaking process, and enjoy tastings paired with local cuisine in their on-site restaurant. The picturesque setting and warm hospitality make Clos Figueras a delightful stop for wine enthusiasts.
Cellers Scala Dei
Cellers Scala Dei is the oldest winery in the Priorat region, dating back to 1194 when Carthusian monks established the first vineyards. The winery played a crucial role in the region’s winemaking heritage and continues to produce some of the most authentic expressions of Priorat’s terroir. The vineyards are located on steep slopes, and the winery focuses on traditional methods, producing wines that are rich, powerful, and full of character. A visit to Cellers Scala Dei offers a journey through the history of Priorat, with tours of the historic cellars, vineyards, and tastings of their iconic wines, including the flagship Scala Dei Cartoixa.
Parés Baltà
Parés Baltà is a family-owned winery in Penedès, known for its wide range of organic wines, including still wines, Cava, and natural wines. The winery has been in operation since 1790 and is now managed by the third generation of the family. Parés Baltà is dedicated to sustainable viticulture, with all their vineyards certified organic and biodynamic. The diverse terroir of their estate allows them to produce wines with distinct profiles, ranging from fresh whites to full-bodied reds. The winery offers tours that include walks through the vineyards, visits to the cellars, and tastings of their extensive range of wines, making it a comprehensive and enriching experience.