Best Catalan Wine Variety Types
Xarel·lo is a Spanish grape variety best known for its use in sparkling Cava, where it is used along with Macabeo and Parellada. It is a high-quality grape that provides power, body, and structure in Cava wines. It is the most planted variety in DO Penedès.
Apart from sparkling wines, the grape is used for dry white wines, both varietals and blends. Wines made from Xarel·lo are medium-bodied and aromatic, with good acidity and alcohol content. The aromas are reminiscent of citrus and stone fruit, and the wines will typically have herbal and mineral character.
Garnatxa Blanca or Grenache Blanc is a white wine grape variety that is a mutation of the red Garnacha grape. It is predominantly grown in Spain and France, but it is also found in other wine regions around the world. Garnatxa Blanca is known for producing wines that are full-bodied and aromatic with a rich texture and relatively high alcohol content.
In terms of flavor profile, Garnatxa Blanca wines often exhibit notes of green apple, pear, citrus (such as lemon and lime), and white flowers. They can also have hints of stone fruits like peach and apricot, along with a distinctive minerality. When aged or fermented in oak, the wines can develop additional flavors of vanilla, almond, and spices.
Sumoll is a rare red grape native to Catalonia. It is an old, late-ripening variety that is somewhat finicky to cultivate and vinify. Although it declined in popularity throughout the 20th century, it is still important in Penedès DO, where it is used both in varietals and blends, and for still and sparkling wines.
Sumoll will usually result in full-bodied, somewhat rustic red wines. The aroma is fruity, usually with some herbal notes and a mineral character. Sumoll is excellent at retaining freshness, creating lively and bright wines with vibrant acidity. It was proven that Sumoll is identical to Vijariego Nego, a variety grown on the Canary Islands where it is used in several regional appellations.
Trepat is a pale red grape variety from Catalonia that is traditionally used for sparkling Cava rosés and dry rosé styles. The grape is most likely native to Conca de Barberà region. Although it is still primarily used for sparkling wines, it is also suitable for still wines that are usually elegant and light in color, body, and alcohol.
Sparkling Trepat wines are fresh and light, with fruity notes reminiscent of strawberries, cherries, and raspberries, sometimes with floral nuances and a hint of spice. Both dry and sparkling wines are well-balanced and have a bright, juicy acidity.
Best Catalan Wine Variety Producers
Familia Torres is a prominent Spanish winery founded in 1870 by the Torres family in the Penedès region of Catalonia. Renowned for its commitment to quality and innovation, the winery produces a wide range of wines, including red, white, rosé, and sparkling wines, primarily using native grape varieties such as Tempranillo, Garnacha, and Parellada.
The Torres family emphasizes sustainable vineyard practices and has been a pioneer in organic and biodynamic farming. Their vineyards are located in various regions of Spain, including Penedès, Priorat, and Ribera del Duero, allowing them to craft wines that reflect the distinct terroir of each area.
AWARDS

Decanter World Wine Awards - Platinum
2022, 2021, 2019, 2017

Decanter World Wine Awards - Best in Show
2021, 2020, 2019, 2016

International Wine Challenge - International Cabernet Sauvignon Trophy
2017
BEST Familia Torres Wines
Best Catalan Wine Varieties
AWARDS

Decanter World Wine Awards - Platinum
2021, 2017

International Wine Challenge - International Cabernet Sauvignon Trophy
2017
AWARDS

Decanter World Wine Awards - Platinum
2022
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