Alella Wine Region Guide

DO Alella is a hidden wine tourism gem that is nestled in the hills above the Mediterranean Sea, 15 mins away from Barcelona! Here, you can taste fresh, mineral-driven white wines and spicy, full-bodied red wines that are famous around the world. You'll have the opportunity to visit some of the most beautiful wineries and vineyards in the region and learn about the winemaking process from local experts.

As you explore the area, you'll be struck by the stunning scenery, with rolling hills and picturesque villages dotted with historic landmarks and museums. From the medieval Castell de Santa Florentina to the natural beauty of the Parc de la Serralada Litoral, there is no shortage of places to visit and explore.

Whether you're a seasoned wine tourist or just starting to explore the world of wine, DO Alella is the perfect destination to indulge your senses and experience the best that Catalonia has to offer. Come and discover the rich history, culture, and flavors of this hidden gem of a wine region. Browse our site to discover what Wineries in Alella have to offer and take full advantage of this lovely region. 

Find out more about Wine Tasting and Tours in DO Alella.

Where is the Alella Wine Region?

The Alella wine region is located in Catalonia, Spain, near the Mediterranean coast and just north of the city of Barcelona. The appellation covers an area of about 2,600 acres (1,050 hectares) and includes 10 municipalities in the province of Barcelona.

Unique Terroir of Alella Appellation

Although Alella is quite a small area, it's incredibly diverse geographically. Despite the different climates, cultures, and grape varieties found in the region, one thing unites them all – sauló topsoil. This type of soil is characterized by its porous, sandy-white color and its excellent ability to retain heat. This helps grapes reach their ripe state and allows for the production of quality wine.

The unique terroir of the Alella appellation is also characterized by its proximity to the sea, which has a moderating effect on the climate, and the rugged terrain of the coastal hills, which creates a diverse range of microclimates. 

The DO has two distinct areas to explore: 

• Maresme and the foothills, both of which have a unique atmosphere created by the sun and Mediterranean breezes which results in wines with a smooth texture and less acidity than other regions.
• Vallès has an interior climate that's more continental, resulting in wines that are stronger and more acidic.

History of Alella Wine Region

DO Alella wine region is steeped in history, beginning with the Roman times when winemaking was first introduced. Its position near the Mediterranean Sea meant it was an advantageous spot for trading, with wine becoming an essential product of commerce.

Wine production in the Alella region continued to thrive during the Middle Ages, with vineyards being established by local monasteries and nobility. During the 1800s, winemaking witnessed a revival in the area. Local growers incorporated advanced methods and refurbished their wineries to keep up with the times.

DO Alella wine region was greatly affected by phylloxera during the 19th century and thankfully, local winemakers managed to regrow vineyards using resistant rootstock from US.

DO Alella was one of the earliest, officially recognized Spanish wine regions of the mid-20th century. It was founded in 1956 and it has gained international acclaim ever since. The wine industry has been expanding over the years, with new wineries and vineyards popping up and newer technologies being used in winemaking. This has given rise to a much more developed landscape of the industry.

Today, the DO Alella wine region is known for producing high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of the area. The region's emphasis on small-scale, artisanal production has helped to maintain the integrity and character of its wines, making them a favorite among wine enthusiasts around the world.

As the region continues to grow and evolve, it remains committed to preserving its rich history and cultural heritage, while embracing new technologies and winemaking techniques to produce some of the finest wines in Spain.

What is Alella DO Wine?

The dominant grape varieties in the Alella appellation are the white grape, Pansa Blanca (also known as Xarel-lo), and the red grape, Garnacha Negra (also known as Grenache). Other authorized grape varieties include Macabeo, Parellada, Chardonnay, and Merlot.

DO Alella wines are known for their freshness, minerality, and elegance, with the white wines often showing citrus and herbal notes, and the red wines displaying dark fruit flavors and a spicy character. Due to the small size of the region, the production of Alella wines is limited, making them somewhat rare and highly sought after by wine enthusiasts.

The wines of Alella DO are subject to strict regulations that govern their production, including the types of grapes that can be used, the minimum alcohol content, and the aging requirements. The regulations are designed to ensure that the wines produced in the region meet certain quality standards and reflect the unique terroir of the area.

Alella DO wines are often paired with local cuisine, including seafood, paella, cheese, Catalan cuisine, and tapas. Visitors to the region can visit wineries and tasting rooms to learn more about the wines and the winemaking process, as well as explore the region's rich cultural and historical heritage.

White grape varieties:

• Garnacha blanca and Xarel·lo (Pansa blanca), Chardonnay, Chenin, Macabeo, Malvasia, Moscatell de Gra Petit, Parellada, Picapoll Blanc, and Sauvignon blanc.

Red grape varieties:

• Garnacha Negra, Cabernet sauvignon, Garnatxa Peluda, Merlot, Monastrell, Pinot noir, Samsó, Mazuela, Sumoll negre, Syrah and Ull de llebre (Tempranillo).

What Foods Pair Well With DO Alella Wines?

Paella Catalana 

Paella Catalana typically includes a variety of meats, such as chicken, pork, and rabbit, as well as seafood, including prawns, mussels, and squid. The dish also features a range of vegetables, such as tomatoes, peppers, and green beans, and is flavored with a variety of herbs and spices, including saffron, rosemary, and paprika.

Unlike Valencian paella, which is made with a specific type of short-grain rice, Paella Catalana is often made with long-grain rice, such as Bomba or Calasparra. This gives the dish a slightly different texture and flavor. Paella is a great pairing with red wines from Alella. The flavors of the dish, including saffron, paprika, and chorizo, complement the spicy character of Garnacha Negra.

Servilleta

Queso de Servilleta is a traditional Spanish cheese from Valencia, crafted using pasteurized goat's milk and aged for 25 days. It has a unique flavor that has been appreciated by many generations of cheese lovers. 'Clothor' is the Spanish word for 'napkin', which perfectly describes how cheese curds are pressed using a cloth before being tied into the middle of the cheese.

Servilleta is a delightfully creamy and buttery cheese with subtle, mild flavors. It pairs well with Iberian ham, olive oil, crusty bread and fresh fruit for an unforgettable culinary experience. The acidity and minerality of the white wines from Alella make them a great match for servilleta goat cheese.

Zarzuela de mariscos

Zarzuela de mariscos is a traditional Catalan stew with bold flavors, such as ground almonds, cured pork, peppers, and tomatoes. It is similar to Marseille's bouillabaisse but has a more rustic taste.

Zarzuela de mariscos is a seafood dish made with mussels, clams, and shrimp, as well as optional scallops and calamari. It is seasoned with saffron, white wine, olive oil, bay leaves, onions, garlic, rosemary, and thyme and garnished.

Zarzuela de mariscos is a popular tapa in Spain and its name literally translates to 'operetta'. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility - adding more seafood will only enhance the flavor.

Places to Visit in DO Alella

Castell de Santa Florentina, Incredible Castle with a Stunning View and Fascinating History

The Castell de Santa Florentina is a historic castle located in the town of Canet de Mar, just a short drive from the DO Alella wine region. The castle dates back to the 11th century and has a long and fascinating history, having been used as a defensive fortification, a private residence, and even a filming location for popular TV shows and movies, including Game of Thrones.

Visitors to the castle can take a guided tour of the interior, exploring the many rooms and chambers that make up this impressive structure. Highlights include the grand hall, the chapel, the library, and the various towers and battlements that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the Mediterranean Sea.

Exciting Astronomical Experience at L'Estrella Observatory

L'Estrella Observatory is an astronomical observatory located in the town of Arenys de Munt, just a short distance from the DO Alella wine region. The observatory is home to a range of cutting-edge telescopes and other scientific instruments, making it an ideal destination for anyone interested in astronomy and space science.

Visitors to L'Estrella Observatory can take a guided tour of the facilities, learning about the various telescopes and instruments used to study the night sky. In addition to the guided tours, L'Estrella Observatory also hosts a range of public events throughout the year, including stargazing sessions, astronomy workshops, and lectures by leading scientists in the field. These events offer a unique opportunity to experience the wonders of the universe up close and personal, and are sure to inspire and delight visitors of all ages.

Parc de la Serralada Litoral, Hiking with Panoramic Mediterranean Sea View 

Parc de la Serralada Litoral is a beautiful natural park located in the hills between the cities of Barcelona and Mataró, just a short drive from the DO Alella wine region. The park covers a large area of rugged terrain, including forests, mountains, and coastal cliffs, making it an ideal destination for anyone who loves outdoor adventure and scenic beauty. Visitors to Parc de la Serralada Litoral can enjoy a range of activities, including hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and nature walks. The park has an extensive network of trails and paths, ranging from easy strolls to challenging mountain hikes, offering something for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions About DO Alella