Penedès, Spain

Location

Penedès is situated in the province of Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain. The easiest way to reach the region is by flying into Barcelona El Prat Airport. From there, you can rent a car and drive to Penedès, which is approximately a 40-minute drive from Barcelona city center. Alternatively, you can take a train from Barcelona to one of the main towns in the region, such as Vilafranca del Penedès or Sant Sadurní d'Anoia.

Wines of the region

Penedès is known for its diverse wine production. The region produces a wide range of wines, including still and sparkling varieties. Some of the notable wines from Penedès include:

• Cava: Penedès is renowned for its production of high-quality Cava, a sparkling wine made using the traditional method. Cava typically exhibits crisp acidity, fine bubbles, and flavors of citrus and green apple.

• White Wines: Penedès produces refreshing white wines, often made from local grape varieties such as Xarel-lo, Macabeo, and Parellada. These wines offer citrus, floral, and tropical fruit flavors, with a bright acidity.

• Red Wines: Penedès also produces red wines, with notable grape varieties like Tempranillo (known locally as Ull de Llebre) and Garnacha. These reds showcase ripe fruit flavors, smooth tannins, and a balanced structure.

Wineries to explore

There are several renowned wineries in Penedès worth exploring, including:

• Freixenet: One of the most famous Cava producers in Penedès, Freixenet offers guided tours of its cellars and vineyards, providing insights into the Cava production process.

• Codorníu: Another prominent Cava producer, Codorníu boasts a rich history dating back to the 16th century. The winery offers guided tours and tastings, allowing visitors to learn about the heritage and production of their sparkling wines.

For off the beaten track wineries, consider visiting smaller, boutique producers such as:

• Parés Baltà: A family-owned winery committed to organic and biodynamic practices. Parés Baltà offers guided tours, showcasing their sustainable viticulture and producing a range of quality wines.

• Mas Comtal: Situated in the Penedès hills, Mas Comtal is known for its traditional winemaking techniques and organic vineyards. They specialize in producing small-batch wines with a focus on indigenous grape varieties.

Local cuisine

When visiting Penedès, you can indulge in the local cuisine, which pairs well with the region's wines. Some dishes to try include:

• Xató: A traditional Catalan salad made with endives, codfish, anchovies, and a rich almond and garlic sauce.

• Calçots: Grilled spring onions typically served with Romesco sauce, a traditional Catalan sauce made from roasted red peppers, tomatoes, garlic, almonds, and olive oil.

• Escudella i Carn d'Olla: A hearty Catalan stew made with various meats, vegetables, and legumes. It is often served with pilota, a meatball made from ground beef and pork.

• Fideuà: A delicious dish similar to paella but made with short, thin noodles instead of rice. It is typically cooked with seafood or meat and flavored with saffron and other spices.

When it comes to restaurants in Penedès, here are a few recommendations:

• Can Bonastre Wine Resort: This winery and restaurant combination offers a unique dining experience amidst the vineyards. Enjoy a meal paired with their excellent wines and savor the beautiful surroundings.

• Cal Pere del Maset: Located in the town of Pacs del Penedès, this charming restaurant serves traditional Catalan cuisine with a modern twist. They prioritize using local, seasonal ingredients and offer a diverse selection of wines from the region.

• Celler de l'Avi Pep: Situated in the town of Sant Sadurní d'Anoia, this family-run restaurant specializes in Catalan cuisine, including grilled meats, seafood, and traditional dishes. It has a cozy atmosphere and an extensive wine list featuring local Penedès wines.

Cultural experiences

Apart from wine-related activities, Penedès offers various cultural experiences to explore:

• Visit Vilafranca del Penedès: This charming town is the capital of the Penedès region and is known for its historic center, medieval buildings, and lively atmosphere. Don't miss the Vilafranca del Penedès Wine Museum, which provides insights into the history and culture of the region's winemaking.

• Enjoy Outdoor Activities: Penedès boasts beautiful landscapes and countryside, ideal for outdoor activities. You can explore the vineyards on foot or by bike, go hiking in the nearby Garraf Natural Park, or even take a hot air balloon ride for a unique perspective of the region.

• Discover Catalan Modernism: Penedès is home to several architectural gems showcasing the Catalan Modernism style. In Sant Sadurní d'Anoia, you can visit the Cava Interpretation Center housed in a modernist building, or explore the Modernist Cemetery in the town of Llorenç del Penedès.