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Explore the Best Wineries in Tarragona

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The Tarragona region, hidden within a series of stunning mountains of Catalonia, gives a unique glimpse at some of Spain's wines. Tarragona is known for producing high-quality wines that both visitors and locals enjoy. It is a picturesque location near Barcelona that has achieved success in the culinary and wine industries. The lengthy hours of sunlight in the area have resulted in some superb wines that are not just sweet, but also full of rich flavours.

The flowing beds of icy rivers, thin serpentine of roads, pink almond orchards and silver olive groves, and a pastel pallet of coloured layers of rocks provide ambience to the mountain scenery. Explore the wonders of Tarragona with Winetourism.com!

Where is Tarragona Wine Region?

Tarragona is the most extensive DO wine region in Catalonia, Spain. It’s stretching from the border with Penedes to the vineyards of Terra Alta in the southwest, and is surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea on one side and the Cordilleras Costero Catalinas on the other.

Tarragona Catalonia

Unique Terroir of Tarragona Appellation

Tarragona is divided into two sub-regions.  The vineyards of El Camp de Tarragona are located at an altitude ranging from 40 m near the coast to 195 m at the foot of the Cordillera. The upper layer of the Tarragona soil mainly consists of loam with limestone, and the lower layer consists of alluvial sedimentary rocks. 

The southwestern part, below the enclave of the Priorato, from Falset to the vineyards of Terra Alta, is located at a higher altitude: around Falset itself, vineyards grow at an altitude of 450 m, and in the west, in the Ebro Valley, about 105 m. The soil near Falset consists of an underlying layer of granite covered with loam and limestone, and in the Ebro Valley — of alluvial sedimentary rocks. The Tarragona climate is predominantly Mediterranean, but summers are somewhat cooler at higher altitudes. It rains mainly in spring and autumn, while summers are hot, dry, and quite long. Winters are mild in the valley and more severe above, where an almost continental climate prevails.

History of Tarragona Wine Region

Tarragona's vineyards date back to Roman times. The ships were then loaded with full-bodied, robust, sweet fortified Tarragona wines and dispatched to Rome. Later, the French seized the trade, and Tarragona became a thriving wine trading centre. This powerful wine was ideal for diluting the flow of so-called ”French” wines. Trade flourished, especially when Algeria, which had previously been the principal producer of such products, gained independence. Tarragona Classico is still produced in limited quantities today, but as in Penedes, the emphasis is now on the quality of the wines.

What is Tarragona Wine?

Tarragona wines are mostly white wines, red wines are rarer, as well as rosé wines. Most wines are best enjoyed young, while some red samples have significant aging potential. Their typical robust style is similar to Priorat wines.

Most of the white grape varieties of Tarragona are Macabeo, Parellada and Garnacha Blanca, among the reds Garnacha, Masuela (Carignena) and Tempranillo dominate. Tarragona is also experimenting with varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Chardonnay. The rosé wines of Tarragona made from these same red grapes are just as light and fruity as the white wines.

Food to Pair with Tarragona wine

Calçotada, Local Food That is Funny and Yummy 

Calçotada is traditional Catalonian food. Fresh leeks, which are cultivated uniquely and fried over an open fire before being diluted to create a sauce. The onion is placed on a plate that's rotated in order to keep it from burning out. The entire process takes about 10 minutes. When the onions are done, they're served as large bunches at the table. It’s recommended to use hands or a fork to gently remove its char coaled skin by dipping it in delicious romesco sauce (salsa romesco) before combining it with salt and crackers in your mouth. For the most part, people in this region like to expertly wash down food with Catalan wine.

Arroz Negre

Arros negre is a traditional Valencian and Catalan dish that is especially popular in Castellon and Tarragona. It is cooked with white rice, squid or cuttlefish, and squid ink, which gives the meal its distinctive black hue - which some people find unpleasant.

Garlic, onions, fish stock, cubanelle peppers, olive oil, and sweet paprika are frequently added to the meal, and many cooks like to add additional types of seafood to the paella pan, such as shrimp and crab.

Places to visit in Tarragona 

Siurana, The Pearl Among The Rocks

Siurana is a small and pleasant town known as "the gem among the rocks." It is high in the mountains, and a clear river meanders like an enchanting curves at the very bottom, at the foot of the rocks. Since all the streets in Siurana are only for pedestrians, it's recommended to leave the car at the municipal parking lot near the village.

While exploring the city, stop by the XII century church to see the IX century stone walls, as well as the Salto de la Reina Mora that gives a special attraction to the town.

Visit the Capital of Modernity - Reus

Make the journey to the Costa Daurada and spend the day in Reus, the Catalan Art Nouveau capital. Where else can you discover extraordinary balconies, lanterns decorated with shells and dragons, a riot of floral ornaments on the walls of houses, and other substantial ornamental elements? This is why visiting the city slowly and carefully is necessary in order to properly appreciate its wonders. 

There is also Gaudi Center a contemporary museum at Reus Museum that is devoted to the life and work of Catalonia's most well-known architect. Its lovely vibe is worth your time!

Discover Mysterious Town of Boleda

The chronicles claim that hermit monks founded the small town of Boleda in 1163. It has a population of less than 400 and isn't just small—tiny. 

Take a quick tour around the city to see how the narrow streets abruptly shoot upward. You move "up and down" as a result, but that doesn't stop you from admiring the old homes and tiny courtyards. When taking a tour of Boleda, stop by the neighbourhood church and chocolate shop. Next, make sure to take a wine tour of the area's wineries to sample some of Tarragona's best wines.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tarragona Wine Region

What is Tarragona wine?

Tarragona is known for their white wines that are smooth, harmonious, aromatic, and fruity.  Rosés are light and cherry in color. The red wines of Tarragona are robust and flavorful.

Where is Tarragona wine region?

Tarragona DO is located west of Penedes and occupies almost the entire territory of the province of the same name.

Map of Wineries in Tarragona

Discover the locations of wineries in Tarragona

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Experiences in Tarragona

Just getting started on your wine journey, or jumping back in?
Taste through a selection of a great local wines.

Wineries in Tarragona