The best wine cellars to sample near Barcelona

With more than 150 years of history, the Vallformosa wineries are famed for their impressive selection of still and sparkling wines, grown in vineyards 500 metres above sea level in the Penedès. To Vallformosa, a commitment to winemakers, to innovation and to the territory is key to achieving the highest quality in all its collections: Vallformosa, Mistinguett (‘sparkling’ wine made by and for women), Gran Barón (the cava that celebrates the ‘good life’), Solo Vida (cava reserva) and Cultivare (100% vegan wines). These delectable wines are adored by wine, cava and music lovers at the Cruïlla Festival, which Vallformosa sponsors.

DID YOU KNOW? Vallformosa collaborates with different labour-inclusion projects for people with disabilities and mental illnesses, along with other groups at risk of exclusion, to provide them with new opportunities.

The love and need for the Penedès has remained central to the Torres family's mission for five generations. They know that the lands they farm today were cultivated thousands of years ago, which is why they feel the duty to ensure that their wines continue to embrace the territory’s uniqueness. Torres wineries are experts in celebrating life – and of course, good wine. They offer tours and pairings, special events and private experiences where you can discover their centuries-old history – a unique enclave for wine tourism lovers.

DID YOU KNOW? Torres wineries is home to an elevated culinary space, El Celleret, where dishes beautifully complement their wines’ natural flavours. The restaurant opens into the vineyard, offering unparalleled views of the Montserrat mountain.

Wine-making in Perelada Castle has been documented since the Middle Ages. However, it wasn’t until 1923 that businessman and politician Miguel Mateu purchased the monumental complex and restored the wine-making traditions which give each bottle the Empordà’s richness and nuance. Few places have as many soil varieties as this territory in northern Catalonia. That’s why the Perelada wineries can grow such a wide range of grapes, which in turn produce an expansive collection of wines, each bursting with character.

DID YOU KNOW? The Castell de Perelada Festival takes place in the surroundings of the Perelada Castle – a festival of classical music, jazz, pop, dance and theatre that’s been held every July and August since 1987.

Just two kilometres from the Mediterranean Sea and between 100 and 250 metres above sea level, the Alta Alella winery thrives. Paying homage to its surroundings, the Pujol-Busquets Guillén are experts in crafting wines which embody the characteristics of the terroir, which are transparent in the way they’re made. They pride themselves on certified organic farming, creating an ecosystem in harmony with the native flora and fauna. There’s also their manual harvesting, which again, contributes to the excellence of their wines.

DID YOU KNOW? With the Serralada de Marina Natural Park as a backdrop, Alta Alella has a Wine Tourism Center which offers unique experiences across art, food and wine, health and nature. It’s the perfect way to spend an afternoon on the hills.

An area of arid land where a castle once stood, Raimat was purchased in 1914 by Manuel Raventós I Domènech. It’s since become the winery that promoted the D.O. Costers del Segre. At Raimat, there’s a commitment to work alongside nature, rather than against it. Here, sustainability isn’t a trend to embrace but a commitment that they’ve pledged to since their founding. Intervening only when necessary has – and continues to be – the key to obtaining wine of the highest quality, which encapsulates the territory’s unique personality.

DID YOU KNOW? Raimat Winery hosts the Raimat Arts Festival, a three-day multi-sensory artistic experience with music, gastronomy and wine. It’s a celebration of the family’s legacy and passion for this land.

Is Barcelona known as a land of wines?

Yes. Located very close to Barcelona are three areas with designation of origin: D.O. Penedès, D.O. Alta Alella and D.O. Pla de Bages which, combined, present a diverse and flavourful offering of wineries.

What does wine cellar mean?

A wine cellar is a type of store that specialises in the sale of high-quality, and often exclusive, wines. More recently, the name has been used to refer to refrigerated cabinets which allow you to store and enjoy delectable wines at home.

Where to have a wine tasting in Catalonia?

The Vallformosa, Familia Torres, Perelada, Alta Alella and Raimat wineries are some of the most celebrated wineries in the region and all offer tasting experiences.