When it comes to wine, Barcelona (and Catalauña in general) is the place to be. Catalan wines have become pretty famous worldwide, so there’s a good chance you’ve sipped on a couple without even knowing they’re from here.
Of course, wine holds a very special place in Spanish and Catalan cultures. It’s the perfect mix of elegant and accessible, so you can be sure you’re enjoying a high quality vino with no trace of pretentiousness.
As home to several of Spain’s 70+ wine varieties, Catalonia is one of the most diverse places to drink wine.
In this introduction to Catalan wines, we’ll explore what makes these regions so special—as well as which wines to order when visting the captial of Catalauña, Barcelona!
All about Catalan wines
Just as the Catalan people pride themselves on their fierce, passionate independent spirit, Catalan wines also stand in a league of their own. Most varieties forgo the tempranillo grape, so common in other Spanish wines, in favor of garnacha and carignan grapes. As a result, Catalan wines feature a fuller body and a higher alcohol content than their Spanish counterparts.
Another factor that sets Catalan wines apart is the beautiful coastal Mediterranean climate in the region. With a picture perfect setting between the mountains and the sea, the vineyards in the region are ideal for producing rich, varied wines. The likes of which you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
All throughout Spain, locals tend to favor regionally produced wines, and Barcelona is no different. When it comes to drinking wine like a local here, Catalan wines are key.
You can also escape to the Catalan wine country with us. Our Montserrat & Cava Winery Tour is a must for wine lovers.
This day trip will whisk you away to one of Catalonia’s most idyllic vineyards (just a stone’s throw from Barcelona!) where you’ll learn the secrets of local winemaking. Of course, you’ll also get to sample some of the local food and wine over a leisurely lunch.
Regional wines to try in Barcelona
With nearly a dozen wine regions dotting the Catalan countryside, there’s no shortage of outstanding local wines to try when visiting Barcelona.
One of the most popular varieties among locals is D.O. Penedès. With a winemaking tradition that dates back to the sixth century B.C., winemakers here have certainly perfected their craft.
As one of Spain’s most prolific wine regions, Penedès produces mainly fine dry reds and whites, in addition to some of the best cava in the country.
Another standout among Catalan wines is the Priorat region. As home to just over sixty bodegas growing their grapes in less-than-promising soil, yield here is remarkably low compared to other Spanish wine regions.
However, while the results are few, they get turned into some of the highest quality wines in Catalonia.
Among the more expensive Catalan wines, Priorat varieties are a must-try for any wine connoisseur.
Cava and vermouth
We can’t talk about Catalan wines without discussing two of the most popular! Although their production isn’t limited to any one geographic area in Spain, cava and vermouth form an integral part of the local wine culture.
As Spain’s contribution to the sparkling wine scene, cava is just as delicious as French champagne and Italian prosecco (and often times less expensive).
As a bonus, more than 90 percent of cava in the entire country comes from Catalonia. With less pretentiousness attached to it than other sparkling wines, you don’t need to wait for a special occasion to visit drink it or visit one of Barcelona’s numerous cava bars.
Other Catalan wines
Wine lovers can’t leave Barcelona without trying vermouth. Yes, vermouth is technically a white wine, making it one of our favorite Catalan wines.
This classic drink is enjoying a resurgence in popularity all over Spain in recent years, and Barcelona is no different.
Once thought of as something your grandpa might drink, it’s now a favorite aperitif for wine fans of all ages, who pack into Barcelona’s best vermouth bars to enjoy it.
Learn more about vermouth in Barcelona
Want to learn more about the Catalan capital’s famous vermouth tradition? Watch our video where Devour Barcelona expert guide Victoria tells you all you need to know.