Wine Regions of Catalonia: Discovering Catalan Wines Through Flavours and Landscapes

Catalonia is not only a land of beaches, mountains, and vibrant cities – it’s also one of the most diverse wine destinations in Europe. Known for its wines and ancient winemaking heritage, archaeological evidence shows that the Phoenicians and Romans cultivated vines here over 2,000 years ago. The Mediterranean climate, varied landscapes, and a culture deeply rooted in gastronomy have shaped a mosaic of wine styles, each telling the story of this land sip by sip.

Our wine and charcuterie tasting in Lloret de Mar

Main Wine Regions of Catalonia

1. Penedès – The Kingdom of Cava

The Penedès, located between Barcelona and Tarragona, is best known as the birthplace of Cava, Spain’s most famous sparkling wine. Using traditional methods similar to Champagne, Cava is made mainly from local grapes such as Xarel·lo, Macabeo, and Parellada. But Penedès is not just about bubbles – its reds and whites are increasingly recognised for their quality.Fun fact: Many wineries here are pioneers in organic and biodynamic winemaking.

2. Priorat – Bold and Powerful

Nestled in the rugged hills of Tarragona, Priorat is famous for its intense, full-bodied reds made from Garnacha and Cariñena grapes. The slate-based “llicorella” soil gives the wines their signature mineral character.

Fun fact: Priorat is one of only two Spanish wine regions with the highest-quality classification, DOCa (Denominación de Origen Calificada).

3. Empordà – Coastal Elegance

Bordering France, Empordà’s vineyards benefit from the Mediterranean Sea and the strong Tramuntana wind. The result is fresh whites, aromatic rosés, and complex reds. This is also where ancient Greek settlers planted the first vines on the Iberian Peninsula.

Fun fact: Empordà wines often pair beautifully with seafood and Mediterranean tapas.

4. Montsant – The Quiet Star

Surrounding the Priorat area, Montsant offers wines with a similar richness but often at more accessible prices. Its reds are fruity yet structured, with excellent ageing potential.

Fun fact: Many locals consider Montsant the “hidden gem” of Catalan wine.

5. Terra Alta – Sun and Tradition

In southern Catalonia, Terra Alta is known for its Garnacha Blanca, producing aromatic whites with great body and freshness. The sunny climate and limestone soils give the wines their personality.

Fun fact: Terra Alta is one of the largest Garnacha Blanca-producing regions in the world.

6. Costers del Segre – Inland Innovation

Located inland, this region’s vineyards are scattered across different subzones, each with its own microclimate. Costers del Segre is known for experimenting with international grape varieties alongside native ones.

Fun fact: The region’s dry climate encourages sustainable viticulture with minimal intervention.

Wine and Tapas: A Natural Pairing

In our Tapas Walking Tour, we love to share this diversity with our guests. One day you might taste a crisp Empordà white with anchovies and olives; another, a deep Priorat red alongside cured meats. Each wine is more than a drink – it’s a story of the land, the people, and their traditions.

Catalonia’s wine regions are a journey through landscapes, history, and flavours. Whether you explore them in person or through a glass during our tour, each sip is a step deeper into the soul of this land.

P.S: Few people know that Lloret de Mar also produces its own wine, crafted at the historic Sant Pere del Bosc estate – a place where history, nature, and Mediterranean charm meet.

Sant Pere's Wine, made in Lloret de Mar