Empordà: Catalonia’s Hidden Wine Gem
Nestled in northeastern Catalonia, Spain, Empordà is a captivating wine region that blends rich history with stunning landscapes. This picturesque area offers wine enthusiasts and travelers alike a unique blend of Mediterranean charm and viticultural excellence.
Towns and Villages
Empordà boasts several charming towns and villages worth exploring:
- Figueres: The birthplace of Salvador Dalí, known for its surrealist museum
- Cadaqués: A beautiful coastal town with white-washed buildings and artistic heritage
- Peralada: Home to a medieval castle and renowned winery
- Pals: A well-preserved medieval village with stunning views
Each location offers a unique glimpse into Catalan culture and history, with plenty of opportunities to sample local wines.
Wine Producers
Empordà is home to numerous exceptional wineries:
- Celler Martín Faixó: Organic wines with stunning views of the Mediterranean
- Castell de Peralada: A historic winery producing high-quality wines since 1923
- La Vinyeta: Known for innovative winemaking and sustainable practices
- Mas Oller: Specializing in Empordà’s indigenous grape varieties
Many wineries offer tours and tastings, providing an immersive experience in Empordà’s winemaking traditions.
Accommodations
Empordà offers a range of lodging options to suit various preferences:
- Hotel Peralada Wine Spa & Golf: Luxury accommodation with wine-themed spa treatments
- Hotel Empordà: A charming property in Figueres with an excellent restaurant
- Mas Falgarona: A restored 15th-century farmhouse surrounded by vineyards
- Hotel Aigua Blava: Beachfront hotel with stunning Costa Brava views
These accommodations provide comfortable bases for exploring the region’s wineries and attractions.
Dining
Empordà’s culinary scene perfectly complements its wines:
- El Celler de Can Roca: Three-Michelin-starred restaurant in nearby Girona
- Can Jubany: Michelin-starred restaurant showcasing Catalan cuisine
- La Vinyeta Restaurant: Farm-to-table dining at the La Vinyeta winery
- Els Pescadors: Seafood restaurant in Llançà, known for fresh catches
Many restaurants feature extensive local wine lists, allowing visitors to pair Empordà wines with regional specialties.
Wine Shops & Bars
Empordà offers several excellent wine shops and bars for tasting local vintages:
- La Botiga del Celler: A well-stocked wine shop in Figueres with a wide selection of Empordà wines
- Vins i Licors Grau: One of the largest wine shops in Catalonia, located in Palafrugell
- El Celler de l’Aspic: A cozy wine bar in Cadaqués offering tastings of local wines
- La Gastronòmica: A gourmet shop and wine bar in Peralada, perfect for sampling regional wines and tapas
These establishments provide opportunities to purchase local wines and enjoy guided tastings.
Other Shops
Beyond wine, Empordà offers unique shopping experiences:
- Mercat de Figueres: A bustling market selling local produce, cheeses, and cured meats
- La Cooperativa Agrícola de Garriguella: A cooperative selling local olive oil, wine, and artisanal products
- Empordà Lovers: A shop in Pals specializing in locally-made crafts and gourmet products
- Cerámicas Díaz Costa: A ceramics workshop in La Bisbal d’Empordà, known for traditional Catalan pottery
These shops offer authentic souvenirs and local specialties to complement your wine experiences.
Attractions
Empordà boasts numerous attractions beyond its wineries:
- Dalí Theatre-Museum: A surrealist wonderland in Figueres showcasing Salvador Dalí’s works
- Cap de Creus Natural Park: Rugged coastal landscapes and hiking trails
- Ruins of Empúries: Ancient Greek and Roman ruins near L’Escala
- Castell Gala Dalí: Salvador Dalí’s castle in Púbol, now a museum
These attractions offer diverse experiences, from art and history to nature and culture.
Events
Empordà hosts several wine-related events throughout the year:
- Empordà Wine Fair: Held in Figueres each September, showcasing local wines and producers
- Harvest Festival: Celebrated in various towns during September and October
- Peralada Castle Music Festival: A summer event combining music performances with wine tastings
- Cadaqués Wine Festival: A springtime event featuring local wines and gastronomy
These events provide unique opportunities to immerse yourself in Empordà’s wine culture and traditions.
Appellations
Empordà’s wine production is governed by the DO Empordà appellation:
- DO Empordà: Covers both red and white wines produced in the region
- Subzones: Alt Empordà (northern) and Baix Empordà (southern)
The appellation ensures quality standards and promotes the unique characteristics of Empordà wines.
Grape Varieties
The Empordà region is known for its diverse grape varieties. Red grapes include Garnatxa Negra, Carinyena, and Cabernet Sauvignon. White grapes feature Garnatxa Blanca, Macabeu, and Moscatell.
International varieties like Merlot and Chardonnay are also grown here. The region’s unique climate and soil contribute to the distinctive character of its wines.
Main Wine Styles
Empordà produces a range of wine styles, reflecting its diverse terroir. Red wines are often full-bodied with rich fruit flavors and a hint of Mediterranean herbs.
White wines tend to be fresh and aromatic, while rosé wines are gaining popularity. The region is also known for its sweet wines, particularly those made from Garnatxa grapes.
Food Specialties
Empordà’s cuisine is a delightful mix of land and sea flavors. Suquet de peix (fish stew) and mar i muntanya (sea and mountain) dishes are local favorites.
Don’t miss trying botifarra amb mongetes (sausage with beans) or arròs negre (black rice). These dishes pair beautifully with local wines.
Drives & Walks
Explore the picturesque Empordà landscape through scenic drives and walks. The Cap de Creus Natural Park offers stunning coastal hikes with breathtaking views.
Take a drive through the rolling hills of the Alt Empordà to discover hidden wineries and charming villages. The Aiguamolls de l’Empordà Natural Park is perfect for birdwatching walks.
Itineraries
3-Day Wine Tour
- Day 1: Visit Figueres, explore the Dalí Museum, and tour nearby wineries
- Day 2: Discover coastal vineyards in Cadaqués and Cap de Creus
- Day 3: Explore the medieval town of Peralada and its castle winery
5-Day Empordà Experience
- Days 1-2: Wine tasting in Alt Empordà
- Day 3: Beach day in Costa Brava
- Day 4: Explore Baix Empordà villages and wineries
- Day 5: Girona city tour and farewell dinner with local wines
Getting There & Around
The Empordà region is easily accessible by car or public transport. The nearest airports are Girona-Costa Brava (GRO) and Barcelona-El Prat (BCN).
Renting a car is recommended for exploring wineries and rural areas. Local buses connect major towns, while trains run along the coast.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) offer ideal weather for wine tours and outdoor activities. These seasons also coincide with harvest festivals and wine events.
Summer (July-August) is peak tourist season, with crowded beaches and higher prices. Winter (November-March) is quieter but some wineries may have limited hours.
Sustainability Efforts
Many Empordà wineries are embracing sustainable practices. Organic viticulture is on the rise, with producers focusing on biodiversity and soil health.
Look for wineries with eco-certifications or those participating in local environmental initiatives. Some offer special “green” tours highlighting their sustainability efforts.
Language Tips
Catalan is the primary language in Empordà, but Spanish is also widely spoken. English is common in tourist areas and larger wineries.
Learning a few basic Catalan phrases like “Bon dia” (Good day) and “Gràcies” (Thank you) can enhance your experience. Most wine terms are similar to Spanish or English.
Further Resources
- DO Empordà Wine Route: Official website with winery listings and events
- Costa Brava Tourism: Comprehensive guide to the region, including wine tourism
- In Costa Brava: Detailed information on Empordà wines and producers
Consider downloading wine apps like Vivino or CellarTracker to keep track of your tastings and discoveries in Empordà.
