Terra Alta

The Terra Alta region is a region located in the province of Tarragona, in the autonomous community of Catalonia, Spain. Terra Alta is located in the southwestern part of Catalonia, bordering the autonomous community of Aragon (Teruel) and the autonomous community of Valencia (Castellón), it is known for its natural beauty, its production of high quality wines, its rich cultural history.

Its name is associated with wine production, which has the recognition of the Terra Alta designation of origin, DO Terra Alta. From this productive tradition arise the modernist buildings of the agricultural cooperatives of Gandesa and Pinell de Brai (The Cathedral of Wine), designed by the architect Cèsar Martinell and declared Assets of Cultural Interest in the Monument category.

Characteristics of the Wines

Terra Alta wines stand out for their unique characteristics:

Red Wines They are powerful, strong, full-bodied and some have a high alcohol content. Breezed and ancestral wines are also made, which are vinified as if they were red wines. For rosés and reds, Cariñena, Garnacha Tinta and Peluda are used.

– Color: Terra Alta reds usually have a bright red color, with purple nuances in their youth and evolving towards ruby ​​tones with aging.

– Aromas: They often present aromas of red and black fruits, such as cherry, blackberry and plum, along with notes of spices and Mediterranean herbs.

– Taste: On the palate, these wines are tasty and balanced, with soft tannins and a long, persistent finish.

White Wines The white wines of Terra Alta are fresh and aromatic, with balanced acidity. Garnacha Blanca is an important grape in the production of whites and provides citrus and floral flavors. Whites are usually ideal as aperitif wines and pair well with seafood and fish.

– Color: Terra Alta whites are pale yellow or golden, depending on the style and aging.

– Aromas: They exhibit fresh and fruity aromas, with citrus, floral notes and touches of peach and apricot.

– Taste: In the mouth, they are refreshing, with good acidity and a fruity character, often accompanied by a subtle minerality.

When making wines in Terra Alta, traditional and modern oenological practices are followed:

– Barrel Aging: Some Terra Alta red wines are aged in oak barrels, which provides complexity and toasted flavors.

– Sustainable Viticulture: Many producers adopt sustainable and organic growing practices to preserve the quality of the land and grapes.

– Wine Festivals: Terra Alta is famous for its wine festivals, where wine tastings, competitions and activities related to wine are held for professionals and individuals.

– Sparkling Wines: Terra Alta also produces quality sparkling wines, which can be made both in the traditional style (with second fermentation in the bottle) and in the Charmat method. The region’s sparkling wines are often made from white grapes and can be dry or semi-dry.

– Wineries and Designation of Origin: Terra Alta is one of the wine designations of origin (DO) recognized in Catalonia. The Terra Alta DO covers a large area of ​​vineyards and is made up of numerous wineries that produce a wide range of wines. Some of the most prominent wineries in the region such as Celler 100-vinos.

– Climate and Soil: The region enjoys a Mediterranean climate with continental influences, which means warm summers and cold winters. Soils vary in composition, but are often calcareous and nutrient poor, which can be beneficial to the quality of the grapes by limiting their yield and promoting a greater concentration of flavors.

– Wine tourism: Terra Alta is a popular destination for wine tourism, as it offers visitors the opportunity to explore vineyards, wineries and taste local wines. Many wineries in the region offer guided tours and wine tastings, providing an immersive experience in the world of wine.

Terra Alta wines are the result of a combination of natural factors and oenological techniques that produce unique red and white wines. This qualification is the result of the Agrarian School of Gandesa and the URV, from which many technicians with knowledge and skills are produced. that over time are consolidated in the wines of this area (Terra Alta region), these wines are full of character and expression of the region. The wines are appreciated both locally and internationally for their quality and diversity, winning prestigious awards on all continents, mainly in Europe, America and Asia. Terra Alta is a vibrant wine region in Catalonia (Spain) that produces a wide variety of red, white, rosé and some sparkling wines. Its diversity of grapes and commitment to quality have contributed to its reputation as a prominent wine region in Spain.

Grape varieties La Terra Alta is known for its diversity of grape varieties.

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Garnacha Peluda (GPN)

The Garnacha Peluda grape, also known as Garnacha Peluda or Garnatxa Peluda in Catalonia, is a red grape variety found primarily in the region of Catalonia, Spain, although it is also grown in other areas of the Iberian Peninsula. Garnacha Peluda is a red grape variety that is mainly grown in Catalonia (Terra Alta region), Spain. Its distinctive characteristics include the fuzz on the grape skin, fruity and aromatic flavors, and a slightly rough texture. Wines made from Garnacha Peluda are prized for their smoothness and versatility on the table, and are especially popular in the region of Catalonia.

Macabeo (MAB)

The Macabeo grape, known as Viura in Spain, is a white grape variety widely grown in several wine-growing regions of Spain, as well as other parts of the world. The Macabeo grape is a versatile white grape variety that is grown in several wine regions around the world, being especially known in Spain in Terra Alta, where it plays an important role in the production of white and sparkling wines, including Cava. Their wines are usually fresh, light and easy to drink, and are appreciated for their versatility at the table. 

Merlot (MEN)

Merlot is a red grape variety widely grown around the world, it is also grown in Terra Alta and is known for its versatility in winemaking and its ability to produce high-quality wines. Merlot is known for its smoothness, fruity flavors and versatility in winemaking. It is a popular choice for those looking for more accessible and easy-drinking red wines. Its cultivation in numerous wine regions around the world has contributed to its global popularity. 

Chenin Blanc (CNB)

Chenin Blanc is a white grape variety widely grown around the world, with a particular emphasis on France, South Africa and Spain. This grape is known for its versatility and ability to produce a wide range of wines, from dry to sweet. Chenin Blanc is a versatile white grape variety appreciated for its ability to produce a wide variety of wines with different styles and flavors. Its natural acidity and adaptability to various winemaking techniques make it a popular choice for both dry and sweet wines in wine regions around the world

White Grenache (GAB)

Garnacha Blanca, known as Garnatxa Blanca in Catalonia and White Grenache in English, is a white grape variety grown in several wine regions around the world. Garnacha Blanca is a versatile white grape variety appreciated for its ability to produce a wide range of wines with different styles and flavors. Its freshness and adaptability to different climates and regions make it a popular choice in winemaking around the world.

Black Grenache (GAN)

Black Grenache, known as Garnatxa Negra in Catalonia and Grenache Noir in French, red Grenache in English, is a red grape variety widely grown in many wine regions around the world. Black Grenache is a versatile red grape variety prized for its ability to produce wines with fruity and spicy flavors, soft tannins and a pleasant body. Its adaptability to different climates and regions makes it a popular choice in winemaking around the world.

Garnacha Tintorera (GTN)

Garnacha Tintorera, also known as Garnatxa Tintorera in Catalonia, is a red grape variety that is characterized by having intense red pulp and juice, which makes it unique among red grape varieties. Unlike most red grapes, in Garnacha Tintorera, the red color is also found in the pulp of the grape, not just the skin. This results in wines with great color intensity and a particularly dark appearance. Garnacha Tintorera is appreciated for its ability to produce red wines with a great concentration of color and flavor. Its intense red pulp and juice are distinctive and give it a unique role in the world of red grape varieties. Wines made with Garnacha Tintorera are ideal for those looking for red wines with body and deep color. 

Pedro Ximenez (PXB)

Pedro Ximénez, also known abbreviated as «PX,» is a white grape variety used primarily in the Jerez region of southern Spain for the production of sweet Sherry wines and fortified Cream-type wines. This grape is especially known for its ability to produce extremely sweet and rich wines, which are highly prized for their complexity and flavor. Pedro Ximénez wines are prized for their richness and concentrated flavor, and are typically consumed as dessert wines or accompaniment to desserts, cheeses and chocolates. Their sweetness and complexity make them a delight for lovers of sweet and fortified wines. 

Samsó –Cariñena (CAN)

Cariñena, also known as Carignan in French and Mazuelo or Samsó in some regions of Spain, is a red grape variety widely grown in several wine regions around the world. Although at one time one of the most widely planted varieties in the world, its popularity has declined in some regions, but it remains prized in others. Cariñena is a versatile red grape variety that produces wines with fruity flavors and firm tannins. Although its popularity has fluctuated over time, it continues to be prized for its contribution to a variety of wine styles and is grown in many wine regions around the world. 

Sauvignon Blanc (SAP)

Sauvignon Blanc is a white grape variety widely grown around the world and is known for producing dry, refreshing and highly aromatic white wines. This variety is prized for its versatility and is grown in numerous wine-growing regions, giving rise to a wide range of white wine styles. Sauvignon Blanc is a white grape variety appreciated for its freshness, intense aromas and lively flavors. Their wines are ideal for those looking for dry and refreshing white wines with great aromatic expression. Its versatility and adaptability to different regions make it one of the most popular and widely cultivated white grape varieties in the world.