When visiting any region in Spain, it is recommended to research and stay close to historic wineries. For instance, Codorníu is a renowned winery in Catalonia famous for its cava. Easily accessible from Barcelona, a quick train ride will take you there.
Some of Codorníu’s exclusive wines can only be purchased and tasted in Spain, with a few solely available at the winery. It is definitely worth a visit for these unique experiences.
Typically, smaller and newer wineries tend to cluster near historic ones, making it convenient to plan a full-day wine tour. From Codorníu, a visit to hillside winery Vins El Cep is highly recommended, known for its award-winning cava.
Research local wine festivals and events as they offer enriching experiences. Some festivals allow visitors to witness grape stomping during the harvest season.
Attending a wine festival can be a great way to make the most of your travel budget while immersing yourself in the local culture. Personally, I celebrated my 32nd birthday at the Festa de la Verema, a grape harvest festival in Sitges, just a short drive from Barcelona. It was a delightful day filled with wine tastings from different regions of Spain against the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea.
Spain hosts numerous wine festivals throughout the year, so be sure to find one that piques your interest and secure accommodation in advance. While festival tickets are usually affordable, nearby lodgings can get expensive if not planned ahead.
If you have a favorite region, consider booking a comprehensive wine tour. For instance, Catalonia is renowned for producing cava. Some regions like Catalonia and the Meseta are easily accessible via public transportation and major airports, while others like Andalusia and Rioja may require a car for transportation, boasting internationally acclaimed wines.
Booking a wine tour is an efficient way to enjoy a variety of wines without extensive planning. Some tours span multiple regions, lasting several days, and include accommodation, transportation, and meals. For more information, visit the Wine Tourism Spain website which lists tours from various companies and allows you to search by your starting city.
For niche wine selections, local wine bars are the go-to spots. In Barcelona, Masa Vins is a favorite wine bar with a charming ambiance and a vibrant tapas menu. These bars often showcase experimental wines from different regions of Spain, offering a mini wine-tasting experience right at your seat.
Additionally, Spanish restaurants with extensive wine lists are worth exploring. Some luxury hotels in Barcelona, like Ama, feature impressive local wine collections and knowledgeable staff who can guide you through the region’s wine offerings.
R, a Catalan restaurant that specializes in seafood and boasts an impressive selection of around 700 wines readily available. Situated within the luxurious El Palace Hotel, it’s a spot frequented by both locals and tourists alike, a sure sign of its quality in my book. Exploring a historic wine cellar is an absolute must-do experience not to be missed. Personally, I thoroughly enjoyed my time at the cellar within Puente Romano Resort. While vineyards are undeniably picturesque, particularly during the bustling harvest season, they are not the sole haven for wine enthusiasts. If you’re someone who delights in delving deep into the world of wine but also craves a more personal touch, embarking on a guided tour through a wine cellar is an essential endeavor. While most wineries and some dining establishments boast their own wine cellars, very few truly stand out as destinations worthy of a dedicated trip. Among these select few is the expansive underground cellar beneath Codorníu, resembling a labyrinthine cityscape and offering a unique cava train experience that transports visitors through its extensive 30-kilometer network. Other cellars, such as the one found at Puente Romano Resort, provide the opportunity to wander through its chambers with the guidance of an expert, select a wine from its vast collection, and savor it on the spot. Housing an impressive collection of over 1,000 vintages, including some of Spain’s rarest wines — a few of which are not even available for purchase — the resort’s wine cellar is a true gem for any oenophile. For the full article, check out the original piece on Business Insider.
