Among the most representative are Xarel·lo, Macabeo, Parellada, Garnacha Blanca, Garnacha Negra, Trepat, Cariñena, Sumoll, Malvasia de Sitges and Picapoll.

In this article, we take a closer look at some of the main Catalan grape varieties, their characteristics and the wines they can produce.

1. Xarel·lo: one of Catalonia’s leading white grape varieties

If there is one grape variety that deserves a prominent place when talking about Catalan grapes, it is Xarel·lo.

Originally from and particularly associated with Penedès, this white grape is one of the most emblematic varieties used in Cava. It can produce wines with personality, structure and a strong ability to express the characteristics of the territory.

What does Xarel·lo taste like?

Depending on the area, climate and winemaking process, it can offer:

• Citrus notes.
• White fruit.
• Herbal nuances.
• Mineral sensations.
• Freshness.
• Structure and persistence.

It is a versatile variety that can be used both in still wines and in the production of sparkling wines.

2. Macabeo: freshness, fruit and elegance

Macabeo, also known as Viura in other Spanish wine regions, is another of Catalonia’s leading white grape varieties.

It plays an important role in Cava production and forms part of the traditional trio of Macabeo, Xarel·lo and Parellada.

Macabeo wines generally stand out for their freshness, floral and fruity aromas and balance.

Characteristics of the Macabeo grape

Its main characteristics include:

• Freshness.
• Floral aromas.
• White fruit.
• Balance.
• Elegance.
• Good acidity.

It is a highly versatile variety, suitable for both still wines and sparkling wines.

3. Parellada: delicacy and fruity aromas

Parellada completes the classic trio of white grape varieties associated with Cava, together with Macabeo and Xarel·lo.

It is particularly interesting when the aim is to bring delicacy, freshness and elegance to a wine.

What are the characteristics of Parellada?

Its main characteristics include:

• Floral aromas.
• White fruit.
• Freshness.
• Lightness.
• Elegance.
• Good aromatic expression.

It can also be made as a single-variety wine, allowing its characteristics to be appreciated more directly.

4. Garnacha Blanca: intensity and Mediterranean character

Garnacha Blanca is one of the leading white grape varieties found in Catalonia and is particularly associated with areas such as Terra Alta.

It is a Mediterranean variety capable of producing aromatic, full-bodied wines with an interesting combination of fruit, freshness and structure.

Depending on the winemaking process, it can offer aromas of:

• Ripe white fruit.
• Citrus.
• Mediterranean herbs.
• Flowers.
• Nuts.

Garnacha Blanca can produce wines with greater volume and an unctuous mouthfeel than some lighter white varieties.

5. Garnacha Negra: an essential Mediterranean grape variety

Garnacha Negra is one of the most widely planted and recognisable red grape varieties in the Mediterranean.

In Catalonia, it has an important presence in several wine-producing areas and can produce very different wines depending on the climate, soils and winemaking techniques.

In general, Garnacha Negra wines can display:

• Red and black fruit.
• Spicy notes.
• Warm sensations.
• Good structure.
• Ripe tannins.
• A distinctive Mediterranean character.

It is an especially interesting variety for those who want to discover the personality of Catalan red wines.

6. Trepat: the red grape variety of Conca de Barberà

When talking about Catalan grape varieties, we cannot overlook Trepat.

This red grape has a particularly close relationship with Conca de Barberà, where it is used to produce distinctive red and rosé wines.

Trepat can produce wines with a fresh, aromatic profile and a lighter character than many other Mediterranean red wines.

What are the characteristics of Trepat?

It can offer:

• Red berries.
• Floral notes.
• Freshness.
• Lightness.
• Elegance.
• Soft tannins.

Its versatility means it can be found in different wine styles.

7. Cariñena or Samsó: tradition in Catalan red wines

Cariñena, also known in Catalonia as Samsó, is another traditional red grape variety.

It can contribute:

• Structure.
• Intensity.
• Colour.
• Acidity.
• Black fruit notes.
• Spicy nuances.

Traditionally, it has been used both on its own and in blends with other Mediterranean varieties.

8. Sumoll: a Catalan variety worth discovering

Sumoll is a traditional Catalan grape variety that has regained interest in recent years.

It forms part of Catalonia’s viticultural heritage and can be used to produce red and rosé wines, as well as white wines from its white grape mutation.

Its wines can stand out for their:

• Freshness.
• Acidity.
• Fruity profile.
• Character.
• Personality.

It is particularly interesting for those who want to discover lesser-known varieties and explore Catalonia’s viticultural heritage.

9. Malvasia de Sitges: history and personality

Malvasia de Sitges is a traditional Catalan white grape variety particularly associated with Penedès and the area around Sitges.

It is an aromatic grape that can produce wines with personality and a distinctive expression.

Its characteristics can include:

• Floral aromas.
• Ripe fruit.
• Mediterranean notes.
• Aromatic intensity.
• Personality.

It is one of the varieties that helps illustrate the diversity of Catalan wine.

10. Picapoll: a variety that forms part of Catalonia’s viticultural heritage

Picapoll is another traditional variety worth discovering when exploring the grapes of Catalonia.

It is particularly well known in its white form and can produce fresh and aromatic wines.

It is a good example of the diversity that exists beyond the best-known varieties and of the importance of preserving and recovering Catalonia’s viticultural heritage.

The three grape varieties at the heart of Cava

Although Catalonia is home to many grape varieties, there are three names that are fundamental to understanding Cava:

Macabeo + Xarel·lo + Parellada

Each contributes different characteristics to the traditional blend:

Macabeo: freshness, fruit and floral aromas.

Xarel·lo: structure, personality and body.

Parellada: delicacy, elegance and fruity notes.

The combination of these three varieties is one of the defining characteristics of Cava and an excellent way to discover how different grapes can complement one another in the same wine.

The importance of terroir in Catalan grape varieties

The same grape variety does not necessarily produce the same wine in every location.

Climate, altitude, soil type, vineyard orientation, harvest timing and winemaking techniques all influence the final result.

That is why getting to know a Catalan grape variety also means getting to know the territory where it is grown.

Penedès, Conca de Barberà, Terra Alta, Tarragona and other Catalan wine-producing areas each have their own characteristics, which are reflected in their wines.

This diversity is precisely one of the great attractions of Catalan wine: behind every variety there is a landscape, a tradition and a different way of interpreting the territory.

Other Catalan grape varieties worth discovering

In addition to the varieties highlighted above, Catalonia’s viticultural heritage includes other varieties of great interest, such as Garnacha Peluda, Monastrell, Picapoll Negre, Garnacha Roja and different varieties of Muscat.

All of them contribute to the diversity of Catalan wines and reflect the wide range of landscapes, traditions and wine styles found throughout Catalonia.

Discover Catalan grape varieties with Castell d’Or

One of the best ways to discover Catalan grape varieties is to taste them.

The Castell d’Or wine range allows wine lovers to explore different territories and representative Catalan varieties, from Xarel·lo and Macabeo to Parellada, Garnacha Blanca, Garnacha Negra and Trepat. (castelldor.com)

This diversity also reflects the origins of Castell d’Or, a wine project made up of Catalan cooperatives and closely connected to local growers and the land.

Its wines and Cavas feature varieties that form part of Catalonia’s winemaking tradition, allowing wine lovers to discover different landscapes and designations of origin, one glass at a time.

From a white wine made with an indigenous variety to a Cava based on the traditional blend of Macabeo, Xarel·lo and Parellada, each bottle is an opportunity to discover a little more about the richness of Catalonia’s vineyards.

Because discovering wine begins with discovering the grape, but also the territory behind it.

L'entrada The main catalan grape varieties you shoul know ha aparegut primer a Castell d'Or.

With the collaboration of CEVIPE and Castell d’Or, the concert brought together more than 400 people at the Solivella Winery, in an evening celebrating music, culture and the region’s wine heritage.

On Sunday, 16 August, the Solivella Winery hosted Llach 76, a musical project that celebrates the legacy of Lluís Llach and brings some of his most iconic songs back to the stage. The performance offered the audience an evening of emotion and collective memory in a unique setting, surrounded by vineyards, wine and cooperative tradition.

At Castell d’Or, we are proud to have contributed to making this cultural initiative possible and to reaffirm our commitment to culture, music and our local community. We believe in the value of joining forces, cooperating and contributing to society by supporting initiatives that create spaces for people to come together, bring culture closer to the public and enrich the life of our community. Llach 76 is a great example of how music, culture, our region and the cooperative spirit can come together, showing how, by working together, we can continue to support projects that create value for society.

Nits a la Fresca began on 25 July with Anna Roig and Carles Belda and continued with performances by Els Catarres, Àuria Franch and Reggae per Xics, culminating in this final event on 16 August.

L'entrada CEVIPE and Castell d’Or support the tribute concert to Lluís Llach ha aparegut primer a Castell d'Or.

With a programme bringing together international legends, leading artists from today’s music scene and performances for audiences of all ages, the festival offered a unique experience in which music, gastronomy and the local area took centre stage. The excellent organisation and wonderful atmosphere throughout the event contributed to the success of this year’s edition, filling Cambrils with energy, culture and memorable moments.

The organisers of FIM Cambrils 2026, the company RGB, have given a very positive assessment of this year’s edition, both in terms of how the festival unfolded and the response from the public, as well as the consolidation of the model developed over recent years. The festival completed all 14 scheduled days of concerts, which took place normally and without any significant incidents, and achieved the expected attendance figures, with 20,000 spectators across the programme.

Singer Ana Torroja brought 14 days of music to a close with her show Se ha acabado el show, during which, over almost two hours, she combined songs from her time as the lead vocalist of Mecano —Cruz de navajas, Hijo de la Luna, Mujer contra mujer…— with tracks from her new album, looking back at the past while also setting her sights on her musical future as an established artist. Once the planned set had come to an end, she sang requests from the audience a cappella, finishing with Me cuesta tanto olvidarte and winning over the more than 1,600 fans who had gathered at Parc del Pinaret.

Once again this year, Castell d’Or had the privilege of being part of the event as an official sponsor, sharing its wines and cavas with attendees in an exceptional setting. The brand’s presence has strengthened its connection with the local area and with a way of experiencing and celebrating life that brings together quality, tradition and enjoyment.

At Castell d’Or, we would like to thank the organisers of the Cambrils International Music Festival for their outstanding work and congratulate everyone who made such a special edition possible. We take away wonderful memories of an extraordinary atmosphere and the pride of having raised a glass, once again, alongside thousands of music lovers.

L'entrada Castell d’Or toasts the success of the Cambrils International Music Festival ha aparegut primer a Castell d'Or.

The cooperatives that form part of the Castell d’Or group, together with Cevipe, are launching the earliest grape harvest in the company’s history. This year’s harvest is starting seven to nine days earlier than in a typical season due to the climatic conditions experienced over recent weeks.

Harvesting will begin on Monday at the cooperatives in La Granada and L’Arboç, followed on Tuesday by Vila-rodona and Albinyana. The specific vineyard plots where harvesting will start are still to be confirmed.

The high temperatures recorded at the beginning of summer have accelerated grape ripening, bringing the start of the harvest forward to exceptionally early dates. Despite this, expectations for the vintage are highly positive.

According to Cevipe’s Technical Director, Joan Rabadà, “the grapes are in excellent sanitary condition, with very well-balanced acidity and outstanding phenolic ripeness—ideal conditions for producing cavas with great ageing potential, elegance and character.”

Following the severe rainfall deficit recorded between 2021 and 2023, precipitation during 2024, 2025 and the first months of 2026 has restored water reserves and ensured healthy vineyard development. Although the past few months have been relatively dry and early summer has been exceptionally warm, the water accumulated during the previous seasons has enabled the vines to develop under very favourable conditions.

As for the sanitary condition of the grapes, the outlook is for a healthy, high-quality and well-balanced harvest, with optimal characteristics for producing high-quality wines and cavas.

Castell d’Or CEO Jordi Amell highlighted the dedication of the group’s winegrowers, who have continued to produce outstanding grapes despite facing increasingly demanding climatic conditions in recent years.

“Behind every bottle lies the dedication, expertise and hard work of hundreds of winegrowing families. It is essential that this effort is recognised and that the entire value chain—from growers to consumers—helps ensure the long-term sustainability of the sector. Only through a strong, balanced and territory-driven value chain can we secure the future of viticulture and continue offering products of the highest quality,” he said.

Castell d’Or was founded in 2005 through the union of several cooperative wineries located in some of Catalonia’s most renowned wine-producing regions, including Penedès, Conca de Barberà, Tarragona, and Lleida. With a winemaking heritage spanning more than a century, these wineries combined their expertise and resources across production, winemaking, bottling, and distribution of wines, cavas, and olive oils. This collaboration has enabled them to achieve the highest quality standards while strengthening the reputation of their brands, which are recognized both nationally and internationally.

L'entrada Castell d’Or launches the earliest grape harvest in its history ha aparegut primer a Castell d'Or.

Castell d’Or Group, a leading producer of high-quality wines and cavas made up of wine cooperatives from across the region, has unveiled a partial redesign of its website with the aim of enhancing the user experience, strengthening the positioning of its brands, and bringing users closer to the values that define the group, as well as its close connection to the territory and its winemaking heritage.

The redesign is part of a digital communication strategy focused on highlighting Castell d’Or’s DNA—a project built on the strength of the cooperative movement, deep roots in the territory, sustainability, quality and a passion for viticulture. Through a more visual and emotionally engaging approach, the new website offers a deeper insight into the group’s origins and philosophy while making it easier for users to discover its different brands.

Another key objective of the project has been to showcase the versatility of cava, presenting it as a wine that goes far beyond celebrations. The new website includes content designed to inspire consumers to enjoy cava on a wide range of occasions, from food pairings to cocktails, while also celebrating its traditional role in life’s most special moments.

The redesign has also made it possible to reorganise the website’s content, making it more accessible and intuitive. Among the main improvements are a more emotionally driven homepage, a refreshed visual identity for the blog and an enhanced browsing experience through a redesigned navigation menu.

In addition, dedicated brand pages have been created for each of the group’s brands to strengthen their storytelling and individual personalities. These pages showcase each brand’s unique values, origins, positioning and winemaking philosophy. This new structure provides users with a more immersive experience, reinforces each brand’s identity and improves search engine visibility through an SEO-optimised architecture.

With this redesign, Castell d’Or continues to advance its digital transformation strategy by offering a more modern, inspiring and functional platform that better reflects the group’s values while bringing its wines and cavas closer to both consumers and wine industry professionals.

L'entrada Castell d’Or revamps its website to strengthen its brand identity ha aparegut primer a Castell d'Or.

And once again, Castell d’Or will be there as an official sponsor, inviting attendees to enjoy the experience with its wines and cavas in a unique setting where music, gastronomy, and the local territory come together.

The Big Names of This Edition

The lineup for the 51st edition is packed with special moments. One of the highlights will undoubtedly be Jethro Tull, the legendary British band led by Ian Anderson, which will perform its only concert in Catalonia this summer in Cambrils.

Another standout act is Siloé, one of Spain’s most promising and fast-rising bands, which will make its only appearance in Catalonia this summer at the festival.

The sensitivity and unmistakable voice of Valeria Castro will arrive at the festival as part of her new tour, while Joan Dausà will once again connect with audiences through the songs from his latest work. The festival will also feature Ana Torroja, one of the great icons of Spanish-language pop music, who will headline one of the most eagerly anticipated nights of this edition.

In addition, the programme includes a wide variety of performances from artists such as La Ludwig Band, Lucrecia, Quartet Gerhard, Gospel Viu Choir, Emma Smith & Ignasi Terraza Trio, and La Grande Chapelle, reinforcing a rich, diverse, and cross-generational musical offering.

Enjoying the Festival with the Taste of Castell d’Or

Beyond the concerts, the Cambrils International Music Festival has become a complete experience. Castell d’Or will once again play a prominent role through its Castelldor brand, with a presence across various festival spaces and gastronomic activities.

Festival-goers will be able to accompany their evenings of music with a selection of wines and cavas produced by the group, turning every concert into an opportunity to raise a glass with local products and wines from the region’s denominations of origin.

Competitions and Surprises on Social Media

The collaboration between Castell d’Or and the Cambrils International Music Festival goes beyond sponsorship. Both organisations work together to promote the concerts and the overall festival experience through their social media channels.

During the weeks leading up to the festival, followers can take part in various competitions and giveaways to win concert tickets, as well as other prizes linked to the event. To make sure they do not miss any opportunities, fans are encouraged to follow the official Castell d’Or and Festival de Cambrils profiles, where new activities and surprises will be announced.

Summer Already Has a Soundtrack

With only a few weeks remaining before the festival begins, excitement is already building. Great artists, summer nights, gastronomy, and a vibrant atmosphere will once again make Cambrils one of Catalonia’s leading cultural meeting points.

The music is about to begin. And once again, it can be enjoyed with Castell d’Or.

L'entrada The Countdown to the Cambrils International Music Festival has begun! ha aparegut primer a Castell d'Or.

The awards received were:

• Silver Medal (93 points) for Castell d’Or Selecció Trepat (DO Conca de Barberà)
• Silver Medal (90 points) for Cossetània Organic Brut Nature
• Bronze Medal (87 points) for Castell d’Or Organic Brut
• Bronze Medal (87 points) for Cossetània Organic Brut
• Bronze Medal (86 points) for Castell d’Or Imperial Organic Brut Nature

These results highlight the quality of the products crafted by Castell d’Or Group, as well as its commitment to native grape varieties and increasingly sustainable viticulture, with a strong presence of organic wines among the award-winning references.

The Decanter World Wine Awards bring together hundreds of international experts each year, including Masters of Wine, sommeliers, and specialized journalists, who evaluate thousands of wines from around the world through a rigorous blind-tasting process. Winning a medal at this competition is considered one of the most prestigious distinctions in the wine industry.

Commenting on the results, Jordi Amell, CEO of Castell d’Or, stated: “The medals obtained at the Decanter World Wine Awards are an excellent calling card for international markets. These recognitions provide visibility and credibility to our brands and confirm that our commitment to quality, sustainability, and strong roots in our territory is the right path forward.”

Amell added: “It is especially rewarding to see that our commitment to organic wines and to such representative grape varieties as Trepat receives recognition from such a demanding international jury.”

These new accolades add to the numerous awards won by Castell d’Or in recent years, reinforcing the group’s position as one of the leading references in the Catalan wine sector.

L'entrada Two silver medals for Castell d’Or at the Decanter World Wine Awards 2026 ha aparegut primer a Castell d'Or.

The distinction comes following the tasting sessions held as part of the competition, where an international jury composed of experts, sommeliers, specialized journalists, and wine professionals evaluated hundreds of entries from different countries. These four medals place Castell d’Or among the most outstanding producers in this year’s edition in the sparkling wine category.

According to Jordi Amell, General Manager of Castell d’Or, “winning four Gold Medals in a competition of such prestige and international recognition confirms that our cavas are capable of competing at the highest level alongside the finest sparkling wines from around the world. This recognition highlights the dedication, expertise, and commitment of our winegrowers and technical teams, as well as the exceptional quality of the grapes grown in our region.”

The four award-winning cavas stand out for their distinctive character and their fidelity to Castell d’Or’s style. Pont de Ferro Brut Cava and Pupitre Brut Cava are characterized by their freshness, balance, and varietal expression. Cossetània Organic Brut Cava reflects the company’s commitment to sustainable and environmentally responsible viticulture, while Flama d’Or Brut Cava was recognized for its elegance and aromatic complexity.

These new awards further strengthen Castell d’Or’s track record in leading international wine competitions and reinforce the positioning of its cavas in both domestic and international markets. The recognition also highlights the work of the cooperatives that make up the group and the quality of the wines and cavas produced throughout the region.

With nearly three decades of history, the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles has established itself as one of the wine sector’s benchmark competitions, serving as a premier international showcase for award-winning wines and cavas. The competition is currently organized into four separate sessions, each dedicated to the professional evaluation of a specific wine category. Assessments are carried out by specialized experts selected for their knowledge and their ability to judge all types of wines according to their unique characteristics.

L'entrada Castell d’Or Wins Four Gold Medals at the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles 2026 ha aparegut primer a Castell d'Or.

Whether for an outdoor lunch, a light dinner, or a gathering with friends, salads are a versatile choice that suits every taste. Here are five summer salad recipes that are perfect for enjoying during the warmest months of the year.

Smoked Salmon, Apple and Arugula Salad

An elegant and well-balanced recipe that combines the rich flavor of smoked salmon with the freshness of apple and the slightly peppery taste of arugula.

Ingredients

• Smoked salmon
• Thinly sliced apple
• Sliced cucumber
• Fresh arugula

Dressing

Prepare a vinaigrette with extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and a teaspoon of Dijon mustard.

The result is a light and aromatic salad, perfect for hot summer days.

Tomato and Mozzarella Salad

One of the most popular summer salad recipes. Its simplicity and fresh ingredients make it a timeless classic.

Ingredients

• Ripe tomatoes
• Fresh mozzarella
• Tender chard leaves or mixed greens
• Black olives

Dressing

Extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and minced garlic.

A Mediterranean combination that stands out for its freshness and balance.

Watermelon, Feta and Mint Salad

The combination of fruit and cheese is one of the stars of summer cuisine, and this recipe is a perfect example.

Ingredients

• Diced watermelon
• Crumbled feta cheese
• Fresh mint leaves
• Mixed lettuce leaves

Dressing

Olive oil, white wine vinegar, and a touch of honey.

The sweetness of the watermelon, together with the freshness of the mint and the salty character of the feta, creates an irresistible combination.

Pasta and Shrimp Salad

If you’re looking for a more substantial salad, this option is ideal as a main course.

Ingredients

• Cooked pasta
• Sautéed shrimp
• Fresh lettuce
• Cherry tomatoes

Dressing

Extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and freshly chopped parsley.

A recipe full of texture and flavor that combines fresh ingredients with the delicate taste of seafood.

Arugula, Feta and Pomegranate Salad

An original dish that stands out for its contrast of flavors and colors.

Ingredients

• Fresh arugula
• Feta cheese
• Pomegranate seeds

Honey and Mustard Dressing

Mix olive oil, honey, and mustard until you obtain a smooth and balanced vinaigrette.

The intensity of the arugula, the creaminess of the feta, and the sweetness of the pomegranate make this salad a sophisticated and surprising option.

The Perfect Pairing: Alcohol-Free Sparkling Castell d’Or

To accompany these summer recipes, an excellent choice is Alcohol-Free Sparkling Castell d’Or. Its fresh, light, and fruity character pairs perfectly with the variety of flavors found in these salads, from delicate ingredients to more intense combinations.

Its fruity notes and refreshing finish enhance the freshness of vegetables, balance the saltiness of cheeses such as feta, and complement ingredients like smoked salmon and shrimp. In addition, as a non-alcoholic alternative, it is ideal for enjoying at any time of day, whether during family meals, outdoor celebrations, or summer gatherings.

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L'entrada Five salads for this summer… and a sparkling wine! ha aparegut primer a Castell d'Or.

L'entrada Eclipse solar 12 d’agost 2026: tot el que has de saber i un vi per gaudir-lo ha aparegut primer a Castell d'Or.

L'entrada Castell d’Or at the FCAC and Caprabo Gastronomic Event ha aparegut primer a Castell d'Or.

Castell d’Or participated in ProWine Singapore 2026 (April 21–24), one of the leading international wine industry fairs in Southeast Asia, with the aim of strengthening the presence of Cava in strategic markets such as Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam.

As part of the collective stand promoted by AECAVA and with the support of PRODECA, Castell d’Or showcased the quality and diversity of its Cavas with Denomination of Origin, establishing direct contacts with importers, distributors and professionals from the Asian horeca channel.

Participation in this key trade fair has enabled the generation of new international business opportunities and reinforced the positioning of Cava as a premium product in a region with growing demand for high-quality sparkling wines.

Other leading brands in the sector were also present at this edition, strengthening the international projection of Cava and helping to enhance its visibility in a highly competitive environment.

With this action, Castell d’Or reaffirms its commitment to internationalization and the expansion of Cava in global markets, especially in the Asia-Pacific region.

L'entrada Castell d’Or present at ProWine Singapore 2026 ha aparegut primer a Castell d'Or.