Hi, I’m Gabby, and Welcome to the lesser known DO’s of Catalonia!
I’ve been blogging about Catalonia for over two years now, but my passion for wine and wine experiences has been growing for decades. I hold a WSET 3 certification, am a proud Italian Wine Ambassador, a certified Cava Educator, and have completed both Spanish and Italian Wine Scholar exams. This PDF is my chance to share with you some of Catalonia’s hidden gems – the lesser-known Denominations of Origin (DOs) that are brimming with charm, character, and exceptional wines.
If you’re looking for the WOW factor, this is it! Let’s explore DO Conca de Barberà, DO Empordà, DO Pla de Bages, DO Terra Alta, and DO Montsant. These regions are full of stories, stunning landscapes, and, of course, unforgettable wines. I’ll also sprinkle in recommendations for wineries that will make your visit extra special. Let’s dive in!
While these DOs may be lesser known, it would be remiss not to highlight two of Catalonia’s most iconic and globally recognized regions: Priorat DOQ and Penedès, as well as the renowned Cava DO, alongside the premium designations Classic Penedès and Corpinnat. Let’s dive into these standout names that have put Catalonia firmly on the world wine map.
DO Priorat: The Crown Jewel
Recognized as a Denomination of Origin Qualificada (DOQ), Priorat is one of only two DOQs in Spain, standing alongside Rioja. Its dramatic landscapes, with terraced vineyards perched on steep slate hillsides, produce some of the most powerful and complex red wines in the world.
What Makes It Special:
Llicorella Soils: These unique slate soils force vine roots to dig deep, resulting in wines with exceptional minerality and intensity.
Garnacha & Cariñena: The region’s signature red grapes create bold, full-bodied wines.
Top Wineries to Visit:
Mas Doix – Crafting iconic wines from century-old vines.
Mas Alta – Known for its luxurious and terroir-driven reds.
Marco Abella – Blending tradition with innovative techniques for expressive wines.
DO Penedès: Catalonia’s Wine Heartland
Known for its diversity, DO Penedès stretches from coastal areas to inland mountains, offering a range of wines from crisp whites to robust reds. It is also the heart of Cava production and a region driving innovation and sustainability in winemaking.
What Makes It Special:
Xarel·lo Excellence: This native grape shines in both still and sparkling wines.
Quality Revolution: Penedès is home to producers elevating the region’s reputation with artisanal methods and organic practices.
Top Wineries to Visit:
Gramona – Pioneers of long-aged sparkling wines.
Recaredo – Champions of biodynamic, terroir-driven Cava.
Llopart – Combining history with outstanding wines.
DO Cava, Classic Penedès, and Corpinnat
DO Cava: Spanning multiple regions, Cava is Spain’s answer to Champagne, crafted using the traditional method. While much of it comes from Penedès, DO Cava covers several areas.
Classic Penedès: This designation within Penedès focuses exclusively on organic sparkling wines with extended aging.
Corpinnat: A collective of premium sparkling wine producers committed to quality, terroir expression, and sustainability.
What Makes Them Special:
Versatility: From Brut Nature to sweet styles, there’s a Cava for every palate.
Premium Sparkling Wines: Both Classic Penedès and Corpinnat elevate the sparkling wine category with strict production standards.
Top Producers:
Rimarts – Handcrafted, small-batch sparkling wines.
Mestres – Innovators of traditional sparkling wines with history.
Oriol Rossell – Known for its estate-grown excellence.
And Now, A Toast to Catalonia's not so well known Grapes and Production areas
Catalonia isn’t just about big-name regions or famous wine styles. It’s also home to grape varieties that quietly add incredible depth and character to its wines. These lesser-known grapes, like Trepat and Sumoll, are the heart and soul of unique bottles that surprise and delight. Let’s shine a light on these hidden stars and the magic they bring to Catalonia’s wine story.
CHECK OUT MY LIST BELOW!
DO Conca de Barberà: Where History and Trepat Meet
Nestled in a natural basin in central Catalonia, DO Conca de Barberà is a hidden treasure for wine enthusiasts. Known for its fresh, aromatic wines, this region is the birthplace of Trepat, a native red grape variety that produces elegant rosés and vibrant reds.
What Makes It Special:
Historic Wineries: Many wineries here are housed in modernist cooperative cellars, designed in the early 20th century by renowned Catalan architects.
Trepat’s Revival: This unique grape is a must-try for any adventurous wine lover.
Top Wineries to Visit:
Carles Andreu – Specialists in Trepat and sparkling wines with a family legacy.
Mas Foraster – Organic wines that capture the essence of Conca de Barberà.
Abadia de Poblet – Wines produced in a stunning monastic setting.
DO Empordà: Coastal Beauty and Tramontana Winds
Located in Catalonia’s northeastern corner, DO Empordà stretches from the French border to the Mediterranean coast. It’s a region shaped by the fierce Tramontana wind, which keeps the vineyards healthy and enhances grape concentration.
What Makes It Special:
A Renaissance of Quality: Once known for bulk fortified wines, DO Empordà is now celebrated for fresh, vibrant Grenache and Carignan blends.
Dramatic Landscapes: From sandy coastal vineyards to rugged mountain terraces, the scenery is as diverse as the wines.
Top Wineries to Visit:
Perelada – A historic estate with a modern touch and a must-see wine museum.
La Vinyeta – Sustainability and innovation shine here, with interactive experiences for visitors.
Hugas de Batlle – Coastal wines with a family-run feel.
DO Pla de Bages: Small But Mighty
DO Pla de Bages is Catalonia’s smallest DO, but it punches well above its weight. Situated in a lush valley near Montserrat, it’s known for its indigenous Picapoll grape and boutique wineries.
What Makes It Special:
Picapoll Pride: This rare white variety produces fresh, citrusy wines with great character.
Historical Wine Culture: Ancient wine vats carved into the ground speak to the region’s long-standing viticulture traditions.
Top Wineries to Visit:
Abadal – A trailblazer in reviving Picapoll and producing innovative wines.
Oller del Mas – A medieval castle setting with a focus on sustainability.
Collbaix – Known for their elegant, organic wines.
DO Terra Alta: A Paradise for White Grenache
DO Terra Alta, located in southwestern Catalonia, is a high-altitude haven for Garnacha Blanca. It’s also gaining recognition for its Brisat (skin-contact white wines), offering a unique, textured experience.
What Makes It Special:
White Grenache Excellence: Wines labeled "Terra Alta Garnacha Blanca" must meet rigorous quality standards.
Orange Wine Movement: Brisat wines are savory, herbal, and absolutely captivating.
Top Wineries to Visit:
Herència Altès – Known for their sustainable practices and breathtaking views.
Celler Piñol – A family-run winery producing high-quality, expressive wines.
LaFou Celler – Elegant, terroir-driven wines that capture the spirit of Terra Alta.
DO Montsant: The New Kid With Old Roots
DO Montsant is one of Catalonia’s youngest DOs but boasts a winemaking tradition that stretches back centuries. Surrounding the iconic Priorat region, it’s celebrated for its approachable yet complex reds.
What Makes It Special:
Affordable Excellence: Montsant wines often deliver Priorat-like quality at a fraction of the price.
Diverse Terroir: From slate to limestone, the varied soils add layers of complexity to the wines.
Top Wineries to Visit:
Celler de Capçanes – Leaders in kosher wines and community-based production.
Masroig – Traditional winemaking with a modern twist.
Acústic Celler – Crafting soulful, authentic wines.
Seen below:
D.O Cava
D.O Classic Penedès
DOQ Priorat
Packing Tips for Your Wine Adventure
Water & Snacks: Stay hydrated and energized.
Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be walking through vineyards.
Phone Charger/Power Bank: Ensure your phone has enough juice for photos and navigation.
Notebook or App: Jot down your tasting notes.
Sunscreen & Hat: Protect yourself during sunny vineyard visits.
Plan Ahead and Savour the Experience
Reserve Tours: Many wineries require reservations.
Timing is Key: Arrive on time to make the most of guided tours.
Travel Smart: Hire a driver or join a wine tour for a stress-free experience.
Raise your glass to Catalonia’s lesser-known DOs and its iconic wine giants. Cheers to exploring the best-kept secrets and world-renowned treasures of this remarkable wine region!