Catalan Wines

Priorat continues trying to reclaim the Siurana River

by  |  12-02-2019

Each and every river begins with a single drop of water. It may not be apparent when looking at such mighty torrents as the Amazon or Congo, but somewhere, deep in a far-flung hinterland, one... more »

DO Terra Alta – 2019: A southern kind of lovely

by  |  04-02-2019

A Spanish wine region with great vineyards and wines that are just starting to show a brilliance that’s been hiding in plain site is most assuredly not a new story–although it’s one I’m always happy... more »

Corpinnat and the death of fine Cava?

by  |  01-02-2019

At the end of January, the lucky wineries in Penedès, Catalunya were those out pruning their vines. Then there were others, dealing with heavy affairs that don’t happen every year, but perhaps once a generation.... more »

How to visit the Priorat wine region

by  |  27-01-2019 ~ 4 Comments

Despite the fact that I travel a lot for writing about wine, when I'm around in Priorat, I'm happy to lead tastings and tours. Sharing such great wines and opening up minds to how much... more »

Sweetness: Alta Alella – Blanc de Neu 2016 & Mataró 2015

by  |  23-01-2019

Dessert wines are decidedly not sexy in this day and age. A right pity that is given they definitely have their place in a meal to cleanse and close the palate at the end and... more »
Photo from acn.cat

The Morenillo grape (finally) gets official permission

by  |  17-01-2019

Morenillo won’t pop to the top of anyone’s list of go-to grape varieties. After all, it isn’t in the Wine Grapes book and so for most people, it probably doesn’t even exist. That’s plenty fair... more »

Mas Doix goes Blanc

by  |  14-01-2019

It’s no secret that I love the wines produced in DOQ Priorat to no end. But, there are good producers and then there are those who reach that “moreish” level of enjoyment of which, Mas... more »

Best Catalan wine of 2018

by  |  27-12-2018

“So, what’s the best wine in _____?” This question in slightly varying forms is one I’m asked often. I have to admit that while I appreciate people thinking my opinion worth something, I cringe a... more »

A question of design: Casa Mariol Syrah

by  |  19-12-2018

A wine importer in the US once commented to me about the labels on Spanish wines: “The great thing here is that I either love them or hate them. Being neutral never happens.” Generally, if... more »

DO Tarragona also gets an update

by  |  18-12-2018

About 3-4 years ago public money was made available for the various DOs in Catalunya to “app themselves”. Due to this, various apps popped up and various levels of maintenance ensued as once the projects... more »