Located in the region of Catalonia, this small region sits on the hills and mountains inland of Tarragona. Wine production is very small here, as this region is about 1/12 the size of Rioja. Priorat achieved DOC classification in 2000. This wine region has been making wine for centuries, but it was the new-wave of talented wine makers in the early 90's that really took this region to the big stage. Priorat wines are made by blending several grapes, such as: Garnacha, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Carinena and Syrah. Wines from this region usually offer a full body, deep concentration and a remarkable balance. Newer barrels are used as well as higher alcohol levels. Prices in this region will a bit higher than others in Spain, main reason being the difficulty in harvesting the grapes, as most vineyards are on steep hills, which in return offers wines with better depth and character. Top 5 wineries in this region are: Bodegas Alvaro Palacios, Clos Martinet, Clos Mogador, Celler Vall Llach and Clos Erasmus.

KEY FINFORMATION ABOUT PRIORAT

• Official Denominación de Origen Calificada Year: 2000
• Acres Under Vine: 4,450
• Soil: Black Slate and Quartz
• Vineyard Elevation: 325 to 2290 Feet
• Major Grapes (Red): Garnacha, Cariñena, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah
• Major Grapes (White): Garnacha Blanca, Macabeo, Pedro Ximénez
• Estimated Wineries: 88

WEATHER IN PRIORAT

SELECTION OF PRIORAT WINES

Mas Doix, Salanques
Region: Priorat
Grape Varietal: 65% Garnacha, 15% Carinena, 20% Syrah, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon
Usually Scores: 90-95
Price: $28

Cellar Pasanau, Finca La Planeta
Region: Priorat
Grape Varietal: 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Garnacha
Usually Scores: 90-95
Price: $46

Vall Llach, Idus
Region: Priorat
Grape Varietal: 40% Cariñena, 20% Merlot, 15% Garnacha, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Syrah
Usually Scores: 90-94
Price: $60