Catalonia is a land of wines with a lot of history and deep-rooted tradition. Do you think you know the peculiarities, characteristics and historical curiosities about Catalan wine? Discover more! Hola Barcelona takes you.
Catalonia, the land of wines
- History and tradition
The origins of wine in Catalonia go back centuries, when Greeks, Romans and Iberians introduced the first vineyards to the region, 2,500 years ago. Since then, traditions and viticulture have spread throughout the area. In fact, in 1758 it became the main source of income for farmers and part of the engine of the economy, since production was exported abroad.
Later, when the artistic movement of Modernism arose in Catalonia, some of the most renowned architects built wine cellars, which went down in history as works of art and are now known as "Cathedrals of Wine".
Therefore, viticulture is part of Catalan culture and is an essential and traditional element that identifies the Mediterranean diet.
- Denominations of Origin
Catalan wines are organized into eleven Denominations of Origin (DO), in addition to the DO for cava. Each DO has different characteristics and they define the wines by the variables of the area. They are usually characterized by the landscape, climate and idiosyncrasy of the area. Catalan wines are of high quality and very varied.
The DOs of Catalonia are:
- DO Alella
- DO Catalonia
- DO Conca de Barberà
- DO Costers de Segre
- DO Empordà
- DO Montsant
- DO Penedès
- DO Pla de Bages
- DOQ (Qualified) Priorat
- DO Tarragona
- DO Terra Alta
Do you consider yourself an expert on Catalan wine?
What do you know about wines? Have fun and test your knowledge with this quick quiz we have prepared for you!
Do you consider yourself an expert on Catalan wine?
What do you know about wines? Have fun and test your knowledge with this quick quiz we have prepared for you!
