Located in the heart of Catalonia, Priorat is one of Spain’s most renowned and historic wine regions.  Nestled between the coastal mountains and the Elbro River, the region is characterised by steep terraced vineyards and rugged terrain.  It’s proximity to the Mediterranean in Nort Eastern Spain influences both its climate and wine styles produced.  Priorat is not only one of the oldest winemaking regions of Spain, but it has also emerged as a modern icon of premium wine, boasting a fine reputation for outstanding quality, particularly complex and powerful wines.

“DOQ Priorat has just over 2000 hectares of vineyards, grown by 575 winemakers and produced in 109 wineries” (https://www.doqpriorat.org/en/doq-priorat/).  With altitudes ranging from 100m above sea level up to 750m, the altitude can help to slow ripening and aid acidity retention in the fruit which ultimately helps balance the wines.

For a great introduction to the wines of Priorat (which we recommend sipping whilst reading this blog!), try Alvaro Palacios, Camins del Priorat 2022 which is fantastic introduction to an iconic producer.

Brief History

The history of winemaking in Priorat dates to the 12^th century when thirsty monks established the monastery of Scala Dei.  They began to cultivate vines, producing the regions first wines soon after.  Over the coming centuries, the wines of Priorat flourished, but it was not until the 20^th century that the region saw a resurgence of international recognition.

In 1954, the region was designated as a Denomination of Origin (DO), but it was not until the 1980’s, with the arrival of a new generation of winemakers, that Priorat earned global acclaim.  Pioneers revitalised the region embracing the key grape varieties and unique terroir and in 2000, Priorat was granted the prestigious DOCa/DOQ (Denominación de Origen Calificada) classification which solidified Priorat as one of Spain's top wine regions.

Key Grape Varieties

The region's most significant grape varieties are Garnacha (Grenache) and Carinena (Carignan), both of which thrive in the hot, arid, sun-soaked climate.  Garnacha contributes rich red fruits, full bodied profile and high alcohol, while Carinena provides acidity, structure and darker fruit flavours.  Together these varieties form the backbone of Priorat wines which often exhibit great power and depth.  In addition, international varieties Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah are permitted to support the indigenous varietals and add more complexity.

For white wine, (yes you read that correctly, although only approx. 3% of the regions wine produced is white) Garnacha Blanca is Priorat's leading white grape followed by Macabeo and Pedro Ximénez.  These wines are often bold, striking and full bodied.  International varieties are permitted to support most notably with Chenin Blanc, Moscatell, and Viognier.

Classification System

The Priorat classification system, Els Noms de la Terra (The names of the Land) was introduced in 2020.  This system is modelled on the Burgundian classification system. The classification system is based on terroir (the quality of the site), the age of the vines, yields permitted with traceability from vineyard to bottle as opposed to administrative boundaries or classification of wines based on aging practices such as Rioja’s Wine.

At the base of the pyramid are regional wines; they can be produced with grapes grown throughout the appellation and are labelled DOQ Priorat. Vi de Vila (Village wine in Burgundy) is restricted to certain places approved by the Consejo. Higher up the quality classifications is Vi de Paratge (similar to climats or lieu-dits in Burgundy).  Nearer the top of the pyramid, single-vineyard wines will be labelled as vinya classificada (think a Burgundian Premier cru) or the very top of the pyramid, Gran Vinya Classificada (the equivalent of a Burgundian Grand cru) with Gran Vinya Classificada reserved for the very best wines only, expressing the terroir perfectly.

Unique Terroir

The region's impossibly steep, terraced vineyards are planted on “Llicorella”, a distinct slate-based soil which retains the powerful sunshine of the day and releases it at night allowing for grapes to ripen optimally in the cool nights.  These soils are poor in nutrients and do not retain water.  This forces the vine roots to dig deep in search of water and sustenance to survive.  The result are low yields and concentrates fruit flavours, the less is more approach.  This challenging environment requires skill from the winemakers, but it is the very combination of soil, climate and altitude that give the wines of Priorat their renowned intensity and depth.

The below video highlights the Priorat’s terroir which calls for everything to be done by hand.  Mechanisation is just not possible in this barren landscape.

 

Famous villages and Iconic Producer

Nine villages form the Denomination of Origin of Priorat which is divided into twelve wine-growing areas.  Key villages that define their wine landscape including Gratallops, Poboleda and La Morera de Montsant.  Each village has its own unique expression of terroir, influenced by altitude, aspect, orientation and microclimates.

Among the regions iconic producers is Alvaros Palacios, whom many consider solely responsible for putting Priorat on the international wine map producing wines like Finca Dofi and L’Ermita.  Both highly sought after and represent the pinnacle of Priorat.  Want to learn more?  EWWines are hosting Alvero’s daughter Lola Palacios for a Wines of Alvero Palacios Tasting Evening on Friday 9^th May.  At the time of writing this blog, we still had a few spaces left.... We do hope you can join us for this event but be quick!

Can’t make our tasting evening but would like to try another wine from Priorat?  We would recommend next turning to Alvaro Palacios, Gratallops 2020 which is produced from organically farmed old bush vines in the village of Gratallops.  This is in effect the estates “village” wine but is an absolute treat.

Conclusion:  Priorat should be explored

Priorat's unique, powerful wines, steeped in history and defined by the imposing terroir, make Priorat a compelling region for exploration.  With the focus on Garnacha and Carinena and innovative spirit that blends modern techniques with long standing tradition, Priorat represents the pinnacle of Spanish winemaking.  Whether you are a novice or an experienced wine lover, exploring Priorat offers the rare opportunity to taste wines as rare as the landscape itself!  If you seek wines of power, finesse and a true sense of place, we think Priorat is a region that demands your attention