Priorat Wine Region in Spain | Definitive Guide

Nestled in the dramatic landscapes of Tarragona, near Barcelona, the Priorat wine region is one of two awarded the highest viticultural qualification level in Spain (the DOCa).

This is why the Priorat wine region, along with La Rioja, is a must-visit for anyone interested in wine tourism in Spain.

In fact, it’s a must-visit for wine lovers the world over.

The Priorat wine region is famed as one of the world’s few places to produce first-class Grenache wines. This elite category includes the esteemed reds from Châteauneuf-du-Pape in France and California’s illustrious Sine Qua Non.

Ready to delve into the history and culture of the Priorat wine region?

Discover all you need to know in this definitive guide of the Priorat wine region. If you’re interested in visiting the region, then click here to view our current selection of Priorat Wine Tours.

Where is the Priorat Wine Region?

The Priorat wine region is a geographical marvel.

Nestled near the Mediterranean Sea, it offers a stark contrast to the sunny beaches of Costa del Maresme. Instead, it boasts rugged, rocky terrain, steep valleys, hidden monasteries and quaint villages that seem untouched by time.

This unique region is located in the Tarragona province, south of the Ebro River, and just 15 miles (24 km) from the sea. It lies approximately 120 kilometres southwest of Barcelona, making it easily accessible for day trips or weekend getaways.

Catalonia is home to several notable wine regions, such as the Penedes region, but Priorat stands out for its dramatic landscape and exceptional quality.

Among the 11 wine regions in Catalonia, Priorat holds a distinctive place, offering a unique terroir and winemaking tradition and unique terroir that sets it apart from the rest.

What Is Special About the Priorat Wine Region?

Priorat is celebrated as one of the world’s few regions capable of producing first-class Garnacha wines.

Garnacha, or Grenache, is difficult to cultivate because it’s susceptible to disease and tends to produce high yields, which can dilute its flavours. But, when grown under perfect conditions, Garnacha produces wines of exceptional depth and character.

It just so happens that the Priorat wine region has the perfect conditions for Garnacha.

The low yields of the Priorat wine region

Spain’s hot, dry vineyards are known for low productivity. But Priorat vines produce average fewer than five hectoliters per hectare (500 liters per hectare).

For comparison, the average yield in Spain is 25 hectoliters per hectare (2,500 litres per hectare) and in the cooler, wetter vineyards of Germany, it’s closer to 80 hectoliters per hectare (8,000 litres per hectare).

Low yields are linked to high wine quality. This is because the vine concentrates resources into fewer grapes, enhancing the flavours and complexity of the wine. In Priorat, three key factors contribute to these low yields:

• Hot, dry climate
• Nutrient-poor soils
• Advanced age of the vines

It’s uncommon to find these three characteristics in one wine region.

Alvaro Palacios, a prominent figure in the Priorat wine region, once told the La Times : “Even the worst winemaker will make amazing wine in our El Dorado.”

And he may have a point. In the Priorat wine region, it’s almost impossible to use large machinery common to vineyards of other major wine-producing regions.

To make wine in the Priorat requires expertise, sweat and hard work.

What is Priorat Wine?

Priorat wines are renowned for their powerful, full-bodied reds that embody the rugged landscape.

The term “Priorat” is Catalan, frequently seen on wine labels, while the Castilian equivalent is “Priorato.”

What defines a Priorat wine is its unique combination of geographical origin, distinctive taste, and traditional winemaking style. The region’s harsh climate, nutrient-poor slate soils, and low-yielding vines contribute to wines with intense concentration, deep minerality, and complex flavours. These characteristics are the hallmarks of what makes a wine distinctly ‘Priorat’.

Priorat wines are famous for their exceptional quality and limited production.

This exclusivity, coupled with the region’s dedication to traditional, meticulous winemaking practices, ensures that each bottle of Priorat wine is a reflection of its unique terroir and heritage.

It’s also the reason why Priorat wines fetch such high prices.

In fact, on Wine Searcher at the time of writing this blog, the most expensive Priorat wines are on sale for close to €2,000.

The most expensive vintage is the L’Ermita 2021 from Álvaro Palacios which has a 100-score rating from Robert Parker and James Suckling. It’s a classic Priorat wine blend featuring 76% Grenache and 23% Carignan from vines 85-100 years old. This blend also has 1% Garnacha Blanca, Macabeo and Pedro Ximénez.

Priorat Wine Region: One of Two ‘DOCa’ in Spain

The Priorat wine region holds the prestigious designation of Denominació d’Origen Qualificada (DOQ) for Catalan wines.

It’s also one of two wine regions across Spain to achieve the highest qualification level, known as DOCa (Denominación de Origen Calificada), alongside the esteemed Rioja DOCa. The designations are distinct but reflect the highest level possible in both Catalan and nationwide Spanish wines.

The DOCa regulations for Priorat wines are rigorous. Red wines must have a minimum alcohol content of 13.5%, exhibit brilliant colour and possess distinctive mineral notes and a fresh mouthfeel. There are also strict rules surrounding planting density to ensure optimal vine health and grape quality. Winemaking is preferably done by hand, reflecting the traditional and meticulous practices upheld in the region.

Comparatively, DOCa in Spain is akin to France’s Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) and Italy’s Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG), both of which signify the highest standards of quality and authenticity for wines in those countries.

The DOCa designation sets Priorat apart, ensuring its wines are synonymous with excellence.

The Symbol of the Priorat DOCa

The symbol for the Priorat DOCa is inspired by the original emblem of the Cartoixa d’Escaladei monastery.

It depicts a stairway to heaven, surrounded by angels and grapes. For the DOCa, this symbol has been adapted to feature twelve sticks, representing the twelve villages within the Priorat wine region.

This emblem not only signifies the region’s rich heritage but also its commitment to producing wines of unparalleled quality.

Priorat Wine Region Subzones

The Priorat wine region features diverse subzones each with their famous wineries.

These subzones, or ‘vilas’, possess distinct terroirs that add depth and complexity to Priorat wines.

The subzones are as follows:

• Vila de Bellmunt : Known for its slightly lighter wines with a distinct mineral quality.
• Vila de Escaladei : Home to some of the region’s most historic vineyards and the renowned Cartoixa d’Escaladei monastery.
• Vila de Gratallops: The heart of Priorat, producing robust and full-bodied wines.
• Vila de El Lloar: Characterized by its rugged terrain and powerful, earthy wines.
• Vila de La Morera del Montsant: Offers wines with notable elegance and finesse.
• Vila de Poboleda: Produces wines with vibrant acidity and intense fruit flavours.
• Vila de Porrera: Known for its complex and age-worthy wines.
• Vila de Torroja: Features a mix of traditional and modern winemaking techniques.
• Vila de la Vilella Alta: Produces wines with a rich, bold character.
• Vila de la Vilella Baixa: Known for its deep, concentrated wines.
• Masos de Falset: A subzone with a blend of old and new vineyards, offering diverse wine styles.
• Solones de El Molar: Notable for its unique microclimates and distinctive wines

Definitive Guide to the Priorat Wine Region in Spain

Below, we will delve into the 7 major elements that make the Priorat wine region exceptional.

From its unique terroir and rigorous winemaking practices to its illustrious history and the distinctive characteristics of its wines, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of what sets Priorat apart.

By the end of this section, you will become a master of Priorat wines.

Join us on this captivating journey through the heart of Priorat, and let your appreciation and passion for Spanish wine reach new heights!

1. History of the Priorat Wine Region

The Origins of the Priorat Wine Region: 12th to 19th Century

The story of Priorat begins in 1194 when Carthusian monks established a Priorat or ‘priory’ called Escaladei.

The name derives from the legend of a shepherd who saw a divine vision of an angel descending from a celestial ladder. This vision inspired the name – “The Priory of the Stairway of God.”

The Carthusian Monastery of Scala Dei became the heart of the region’s viticulture, with monks tending the vineyards for centuries until 1835, when the lands were expropriated by the state and distributed to smallholders.

Devastation and Rebirth: 19th to Mid-20th Century

In the late 19th century, the phylloxera pest devastated Priorat’s vineyards, causing economic ruin and significant emigration.

Before the outbreak, Priorat had around 5,000 hectares (12,000 acres) of vineyards. The recovery was slow, and it was not until the 1950s that replanting efforts began in earnest. The DO Priorat was formally established in 1954, setting the stage for a revival.

But the revival of the Priorat was a long time coming.

Until the 1980s, only a single-lane road connected Priorat’s medieval towns to the rest of Spain, and local wines were sold cheaply in large plastic jugs.

But this was all about to change.

The Quality Revolution: 1980s to 1990s

The 1980s marked a turning point for Priorat.

Visionary winemakers like René Barbier began purchasing plots, convinced of the region’s potential.

Barbier, active in a Rioja winery owned by the Palacios family, bought his first land in Priorat in 1979. By this time, there were only 600 hectares (1,500 acres) of vineyards. Barbier’s efforts in the 1980s encouraged others, including Álvaro Palacios, to join the endeavour.

For the first three vintages (1989-1991), a group of five wineries pooled their grapes and shared a winery in Gratallops, producing a single wine sold under five labels:

• Clos Mogador (Barbier)
• Clos Dofi (Palacios, later renamed Finca Dofi)
• Clos Erasmus (Daphne Glorian)
• Clos Martinet (Josep Lluis Perez)
• Clos de l’Obac (Carles Pastrana)

This cooperative approach initially helped to establish Priorat’s reputation, as we’re about to see.

Rise to Fame: 1990s to Early 2000s

In 1993, Palacios produced L’Ermita, a wine from a 66-year-old Garnacha vineyard that transformed his winemaking philosophy and garnered international acclaim.

The wine’s success drew further attention to Priorat, and by the mid-1990s, winemakers like Barbier, Palacios, and others had elevated Priorat to global prominence. Their wines received high ratings from critics, including American wine critic Robert Parker, who awarded 100 points to Glorian’s first solo vintage of Clos Erasmus.

Robert Parker’s rating released a wave of interest in the Priorat, with bottle prices regularly rising about $100 for the region’s limited vintages.

Modern Success and Expansion: 2000s Onwards

In 2000, Priorat was elevated from DO to DOQ status by Catalan authorities, with national confirmation from the Spanish Government for its DOCa status following in 2009.

This recognition underscored the region’s exceptional quality. The vineyard area has been expanding since the 1990s, growing from 1,000 hectares (2,500 acres) at the turn of the millennium to over 2,010 hectares (5,000 acres) by 2018.

By the mid-2000s, the Priorat wine region boasted 85 wineries, with wines being sold across the world.

Major players in the Spanish wine industry, such as Freixenet, Codorníu, and Osborne, have invested heavily in Priorat, planting extensive vineyards and further boosting the region’s production and reputation.

Nevertheless, the Priorat wine region’s tough conditions prevent over-development that has tarnished other leading wine regions.

2. Priorat Terroir: The Unique Soil & Topography

The terroir of Priorat is truly unique.

The area’s volcanic origin imparts fascinating characteristics to the soil. Known as llicorella in Catalan, the soil comprises reddish and black slate with small particles of mica, which reflect sunlight and conserve heat.

This 50-centimeter-thick topsoil of decomposed slate and mica forces vine roots to burrow deep into the earth, often reaching 10 to 20 meters down in search of water, nutrients, and minerals.

This characteristic enhances the quality of the wine and keeps the vines firmly anchored during frequent strong winds and storms.

The vineyards of Priorat often grow alongside olive trees, adding to the region’s picturesque and unique landscape. The unusual colours of the terrain, dominated by blacks and yellows, create a striking visual impact, especially when contrasted with the slanted terraces carved into the hillsides.

Traditional Winemaking in the Priorat Wine Region

The limited areas suitable for planting, combined with the challenging terrain, contribute to the exceptional taste and high prices of Priorat wines.

But there’s a surprising knock-on effect.

Large-scale production is impossible due to the difficult landscape, which cannot be mechanized. The vineyards are still tended by men and animals, ensuring that many Priorat wines are hand-made.

This artisanal approach, necessitated by the rugged topography, is a key reason why Priorat wines are so highly valued and sought after by connoisseurs around the world.

3. Priorat Grapes: The Taste of the Priorat

As of 2018, Priorat had 2,010 hectares (5,000 acres) of vineyards, with a substantial 93% dedicated to red varieties.

Garnacha and Cariñena, locally known as Samsó, are the cornerstone grapes, recommended for their robustness and historical significance.

Other authorized red varieties include Garnacha Peluda, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah.

White grape cultivation is much smaller in scale, accounting for just 7% of the vineyards. The primary white variety is Garnacha Blanca, accompanied by Macabeo, Pedro Ximénez, and Chenin. These varieties contribute to the nuanced and versatile profile of Priorat’s white wines.

The Priorat’s Llicorella Soil: Unparalleled Minerality

The distinctive llicorella soil imparts a minerality that is unmistakable in Priorat wines.

Priorat reds are celebrated for their complex flavours, featuring notes of licorice, tar, and brandied cherries. When Garnacha and Carignan dominate, the wines offer layers of black cherry and plum, interwoven with herbal nuances like wild thyme, tarragon, curry, and dill, and floral hints of lavender and violets.

These wines are famed for being as sophisticated as Bordeaux wines, but with a graphite bite and a dense, inky texture that speaks to their high quality.

The introduction of French grape varieties in the 1980s further enriched the region’s wine profile, allowing for greater diversity and complexity in the blends. This evolution reflects Priorat’s ability to balance tradition with innovation, producing wines that are both deeply rooted in their historical origins and excitingly contemporary.

In essence, the taste of Priorat wines is a direct expression of its rugged landscape and centuries-old viticultural practices.

The combination of volcanic soils, meticulous hand-crafting, and low yields results in wines that are powerful, complex, and highly sought after, making them a true treasure of the Spanish wine world.

4. Priorat Winemaking: Spanish Ageing Designations

When buying or tasting Priorat wines, it is common to find them described according to Spanish designations.

These designations and what the describe are:

• Crianza: Wines must remain in oak barrels for 6 months and then 18 months in the bottle.
• Reserva: Wines must remain in oak barrels for 12 months and then 24 months in the bottle.
• Gran Reserva: Wines remain in oak barrels for 24 months and then 36 months in the bottle.

But not all Priorat wines will use this terminology.

It’s common to find wines described as:

• Vino de Guarda: Current Priorat production laws recognize this designation for red wines that must spend a minimum of 12 months in oak prior to bottling. Most red Priorat wines conform to this standard. Typically, wines in Priorat are aged in oak barrels for 18 months followed by 6 months in the bottle, with an optimal consumption time of 2 years later.
• Fermentado en Barrica / Barrica: Indicates the wine has been fermented or aged in barrels of 600 litres or less.
• Roble: Often accompanied by the length of time (in months or years) the wine has spent in barrels of 600 litres or less.

5. The Best Priorat Wines

Garnacha Negra/Tinta (Grenache) and Samsó (Carignan/Cariñena)

Red Priorat wines are predominantly crafted from a blend of Garnacha Negra (Grenache) and Samsó (Carignan). These two varieties form the backbone of the region’s reds, celebrated for their intense flavours and robust structure.

Popular Wines:

• Clos Mogador: A renowned wine that blends Garnacha with Carignan, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Known for its deep, inky color and complex flavors of black cherry, plum, and hints of wild herbs. It offers a sophisticated palate with a graphite bite and a dense texture.
• Finca Dofi: This wine, produced by Álvaro Palacios, is a blend of primarily Garnacha with a touch of Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon. It is famous for its elegant balance, with notes of dark fruits, licorice, and a distinct mineral undertone derived from the llicorella soil.
• Clos Erasmus: Made from Garnacha and Carignan, this wine is highly acclaimed for its depth and complexity. It features flavors of brandied cherries, licorice, and tar, with floral hints of lavender and violets. It has achieved high ratings internationally, including a perfect score from Robert Parker.

Garnacha Peluda, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Syrah

These varieties are often used to complement the primary Garnacha and Samsó blends, adding layers of complexity and enhancing the overall profile of the wines.

Popular Wines:

• Mas Doix Salanques: A blend of Garnacha, Carignan, Syrah, and Merlot. It is known for its rich and concentrated flavors of ripe red fruits, spices, and a hint of vanilla from oak aging. The wine has a smooth, velvety texture and a long, elegant finish.

• Clos Martinet: This wine combines Garnacha and Carignan with Syrah and Merlot. It offers a bouquet of dark berries, tobacco, and earthy notes. The palate is full-bodied with a refined structure and persistent finish.

Garnacha Blanca and Macabeo

White Priorat wines, though less common than the reds, are primarily made from Garnacha Blanca and Macabeo. These wines are known for their freshness and minerality.

Popular Wines:

• Clos Nelin: Produced by Clos Mogador, this white wine blends Garnacha Blanca with Macabeo and other white varieties. It is noted for its aromatic complexity, with flavors of citrus, white flowers, and a stony minerality. The wine has a vibrant acidity and a long, refreshing finish.
• Terra de Cuques: This blend of Garnacha Blanca and Pedro Ximénez offers a unique profile with aromas of ripe pears, apricots, and a touch of honey. On the palate, it is rich and textured, balanced by a crisp acidity and mineral backbone.

Specialty Varietals

In addition to the main varieties, Priorat also produces wines from lesser-known grapes, adding to the region’s diversity.

Popular Wines:

• L’Ermita: Made by Álvaro Palacios, this wine uses old-vine Garnacha and sometimes includes small amounts of Carignan. It is one of the most prestigious wines from Priorat, known for its profound depth, elegance, and a price tag that reflects its rarity and quality. It features flavors of red and black fruits, floral notes, and a distinctive mineral character from the llicorella soil.

Priorat wines, whether red or white, are a true reflection of the region’s rugged terrain, meticulous craftsmanship, and centuries-old winemaking tradition.

6. Other Types of Popular Priorat Wines

The range of Priorat wines extends beyond the above description.

Other types of wine you can find produced from the Priorat wine region include:

• Vino Rancio (or Vi Ranci in Catalan): Produced from dry red or white wines with a minimum alcohol level of 15% (by volume) and aged outside for at least five years in clear glass demijohns. This process results in an oxidised, brown-coloured wine with a relatively high alcohol content.
• Vino de Licor Dulce: A sweet, fortified wine with a minimum alcohol content of 15%. Grape spirit, which halts the alcoholic fermentation of the must while retaining some natural sugars, can be added to the ferment once it has reached a minimum of 8% alcohol.
• Vino Mistela Blanca/Tinta: A type of fortified grape must or juice, similar to Pineau des Charentes or Macvin du Jura. Grape spirit is added to grape must to create a very sweet, grape-based aperitif with an alcohol content between 15% and 22% by volume.
• Vino Dulce Natural: Comparable to France’s vin doux naturels, this wine is produced from very sweet grapes with potential alcohol levels over 18 degrees (or 320 grams per litre of sugar). The grapes are partially fermented, and grape spirit can be added once alcohol levels reach at least 7%. The resulting fortified wine must have a minimum alcohol content of 15%.

7. The Most Famous Priorat Wineries

In this section, we explore some of the most renowned wineries in Priorat, each contributing to the region’s reputation for exceptional wines.

These wineries are celebrated for their rich history, unique terroir, and innovative winemaking practices.

Scala Dei

Scala Dei, located in the heart of Priorat, produces wines in the historic cellars of an old priory. This winery not only crafts exquisite red wines but also offers dry white and rosé wines. Scala Dei’s deep connection to the region’s monastic past and its commitment to traditional winemaking techniques make it a standout in Priorat.

Álvaro Palacios

Álvaro Palacios fell in love with winemaking and has become one of Priorat’s most influential figures. His renowned wines, such as Finca Dofí, Les Terrasses, and L’Ermita, have garnered international acclaim. In 1993, Palacios created L’Ermita from a 66-year-old Garnacha vineyard, a wine that revolutionized his approach and brought him fame. Some vintages of L’Ermita fetch up to $1,000 a bottle, making it one of the most sought-after wines in the region.

Clos Mogador

Founded by René Barbier, Clos Mogador is a pioneering winery that dates back to 1979. Barbier’s family, originally from France, moved to Tarragona in the 1880s to escape the phylloxera epidemic. Clos Mogador, located on amphitheater-like slopes with the Siurana river running through, produces some of the finest wines in Priorat, including the highly esteemed Clos Mogador and Manyetes.

Clos & Terrasses – Clos Erasmus

Clos Erasmus, produced by Clos & Terrasses, is one of Priorat’s most distinguished wines. Initially housed in René Barbier’s Clos Mogador, this winery was established by Daphne Glorian, a Swiss native married to a North American. Clos Erasmus has achieved worldwide acclaim and continues to be a benchmark for excellence in the region.

Vall Llach

Founded by Lluís Llach, a prominent anti-Franco singer often referred to as the “Bob Dylan of Spain,” Vall Llach is known for its powerful and expressive wines. The winery’s dedication to quality and its unique cultural heritage make it a significant player in Priorat’s wine scene.

Mas Doix

Mas Doix, founded by Ramon Llagostera, a former PepsiCo executive who returned to the region where he grew up after its status began to grow. Mas Doix is renowned for its wines made from vineyards that have been in his family for five generations. Mas Doix’s commitment to tradition and quality has made it a favourite among wine enthusiasts.

Mas Martinet

Josep Lluis Pérez revitalized Mas Martinet in 1981 and also launched the Enology School in Falset. The winery produces Clos Martinet and Martinet wines, known for their complexity and depth. Pérez’s efforts have been instrumental in raising the profile of Priorat wines on the global stage.

Celler Fuentes

Founded by Josep Maria Fuentes in 1995, Celler Fuentes produces the esteemed Gran Clos wines. The winery’s dedication to crafting high-quality wines has earned it a place among Priorat’s most respected producers.

Mas d’en Compte

Mas d’en Compte, led by Joan Sangenis, is gaining attention for its exceptional wines, particularly the Garnacha Blanca made from 110-year-old vines. Sangenis represents the fifth generation of his family to live in Porrera, and his wines reflect the deep-rooted history and evolving future of the region.

These wineries collectively embody the spirit and excellence of Priorat, making it one of the most revered wine regions in the world. Their commitment to quality, tradition, and innovation continues to shape the future of Priorat wine.

Wine Tourism: Visiting the Priorat Wine Region

Visiting the Priorat Wine Region from Barcelona

The Priorat wine region is roughly 140 km (90 miles) southwest of central Barcelona.

This drive offers a picturesque escape from the city, winding through Catalonia’s charming countryside and into the heart of one of Spain’s most prestigious wine regions.

From Tarragona, the drive to Priorat is even shorter, typically taking about an hour. This makes Priorat an ideal destination for wine enthusiasts based in Tarragona or those looking for a convenient day trip from the coastal city.

Tourism in Priorat is diverse, catering to a range of interests and schedules. Many visitors opt for overnight stays, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the region’s serene beauty and extensive wine offerings. Numerous charming accommodations are available, from rustic countryside inns to luxurious boutique hotels, providing the perfect base for exploring the vineyards and wineries.

Day trips from Barcelona or Tarragona are also popular, especially for those with limited time. These trips often include guided tours of some of the most renowned wineries, tastings of exquisite wines, and opportunities to learn about the region’s rich history and unique winemaking practices. Whether you’re planning a quick visit or an extended stay, Priorat promises a memorable and enriching experience for every wine lover.

If you’re interested in visiting the region, then click here to view our current selection of Priorat Wine Tours.

Places to Visit in the Priorat

The Priorat wine region is not only renowned for its exceptional wines but also for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes.

Here are some of the most famous towns, sights, and landmarks that visitors should not miss.

Vilanova i la Geltrú

Known as the “Town of Wine,” Vilanova i la Geltrú boasts the Museum of Wine, where visitors can learn about the region’s viticultural history and traditions. This vibrant town offers a charming blend of cultural attractions and wine tourism.

La Cartuja de Escaladei

The ruins of La Cartuja de Escaladei, the first Carthusian monastery in Spain, are a must-visit. Founded in the 12th century, this monastery is currently being reconstructed, allowing visitors to explore its historical significance and architectural beauty.

Montsant Massif

Declared a natural park in 2002, the Montsant Massif is a stunning area for hiking and nature exploration. Its rugged terrain and breathtaking views make it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.

Siurana

With only 37 inhabitants, Siurana is a picturesque village featuring cobblestone streets and ancient houses perched 737 meters above sea level. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Montsant, La Gritella, and Prades mountains. This village was an old Muslim fortress before the Reconquista in 1153 and marks one end of the DOC Priorat.

La Vilella Baixa

Situated at the top of a hill, La Vilella Baixa offers a glimpse into traditional Catalan village life. Its scenic location and charming architecture make it a delightful stop for visitors exploring the region.

Prades

Known as the “Red Village” due to its distinctive red sandstone buildings, Prades is located 1,000 meters above sea level. It is famous for its stunning sunsets and sunrises, providing breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere.

Falset

The capital of the Priorat region, Falset, is a hub of activity with hotels, restaurants, wine bars, and the Castell del Vi wine museum. It serves as a perfect base for exploring the region and indulging in its culinary delights.

Corbatera Rock

Corbatera Rock is the highest point in the Montsant mountain range, standing at 1,163 meters above sea level. It offers incredible views, and on clear days, visitors can see as far as Mallorca and the Pyrenees.

Tarragona

A former capital of Hispania Citerior during the Roman Empire, Tarragona is rich in history. Its ancient walls date back to the 3rd century BC, and it features a Roman amphitheatre and aqueduct from the 1st century BC. Declared a national historic monument in 1905 and a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000, Tarragona also boasts the Santa Maria Cathedral, built on a mosque that itself was built on a Roman temple dedicated to Jupiter. The chapel of the Colegio Jesús y María, designed by Gaudí, adds to the city’s architectural marvels.

These sites and landmarks highlight the diverse attractions of the Priorat wine region, making it a perfect destination for wine lovers, history enthusiasts, and nature explorers alike.

Priorat Vineyards to Visit

Visiting vineyards in Priorat can be challenging due to the region’s rugged terrain and remote locations.

Many of the wineries are not always open to visitors. Those that are may need to show wine tourists round by removing staff from their day-to-day duties. Many times an excited trip to the remote Priorat can end in disappointment.

This is why a guided Priorat wine tour is recommended.

At Barcelona Inside and Out our Standard Day Tour promises vineyard tours and wine tasting at at least two of the following three famous wineries:

Scala Dei

Scala Dei is one of the most historic wineries in Priorat, located in the old priory cellars of the Cartuja de Escaladei. This vineyard produces a range of wines, including dry white and rosé varieties, in addition to their renowned reds. Visitors can explore the ancient cellars and learn about the rich history of winemaking in the region, dating back to the establishment of the first Carthusian monastery in Spain. The combination of historical ambiance and exceptional wines makes Scala Dei a unique destination for wine enthusiasts.

Álvaro Palacios

Álvaro Palacios is a name synonymous with excellence in Priorat. Known for his pioneering work and exceptional wines, Palacios produces some of the region’s most celebrated labels, including Finca Dofí, Les Terrasses, and the illustrious L’Ermita. The latter, made from fruit sourced from a 66-year-old Garnacha vineyard, is particularly famous and commands high prices, often exceeding $300 a bottle. A visit to Álvaro Palacios offers an opportunity to taste these iconic wines and gain insight into the vision and dedication that have propelled Priorat to international acclaim.

Clos Mogador

Founded by René Barbier, Clos Mogador is a pioneering estate in Priorat, known for its stunning vineyards and outstanding wines. Barbier’s family, originally from France, settled in Tarragona in the 1880s to escape the phylloxera epidemic. Clos Mogador is renowned for its deep, complex wines, including the flagship Clos Mogador and Manyetes. The vineyards are situated on amphitheater-like slopes, offering breathtaking views and a unique terroir that enhances the quality of the wines. A visit to Clos Mogador allows wine lovers to experience the meticulous craftsmanship and passion that define Barbier’s approach to winemaking.

Our Standard Day Tour also takes you to one exciting new producer. The trip therefore lets you sample vintage Priorat wine representing the past, and a taste of where the wine region is going.

Exploring these vineyards provides a deeper understanding of Priorat’s winemaking heritage and the dedication to quality that characterizes the region.

If you’re interested in visiting the region, then click here to view our current selection of Priorat Wine Tours.

Priorat Wine Cathedrals

One of our other popular Priorat wine tours is the Priorat Wine Cathedrals Tour.

This offers a unique opportunity to explore Catalonia’s magnificent wine cathedrals in the Tarragona region and enjoy some of their finest wines. These spectacular buildings, built in the early 1900s in the Art Nouveau style of Catalan modernism, were designed by Gaudi’s contemporaries, including Cesar Martinell.

Known as wine cathedrals due to their high ceilings and vast naves that house large-scale fermentation tanks, these cooperative wine cellars are architectural masterpieces.

This tour not only allows you to experience the architectural beauty of these historic buildings but also offers a chance to taste some of the finest wines from the region, making it a perfect blend of culture and gastronomy.

If you’re interested in visiting the region, then click here to view our current selection of Priorat Wine Tours.

Book Your Guided Priorat Wine Tour

The Priorat wine region is a true gem, renowned for its exceptional wines, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes.

From the powerful red wines crafted from Garnacha and Carignan to the unique terroir defined by rugged terrain and ancient slate soils, Priorat offers a wine experience like no other. The region’s blend of traditional winemaking techniques and innovative practices ensures that each bottle is a testament to its heritage and quality.

Exploring the dramatic vineyards and tasting the renowned wines of Priorat is an unforgettable experience.

To fully immerse yourself in the wonders of this remarkable wine region, consider booking one fo the Priorat wine tours offered by Barcelona Inside and Out.

These tours offer a curated experience, taking you to the heart of Priorat’s vineyards, wineries, and historic landmarks. Discover the rich flavors and stories behind each wine, guided by experts who share a passion for this extraordinary region.

Don’t miss the chance to taste the famous wines and see the dramatic vineyards of Priorat for yourself.

Book your Priorat wine tour today and embark on a journey that will deepen your appreciation for one of Spain’s most prestigious wine regions.