I recently participated in a roundtable discussion hosted by Harpers Wine & Spirit about the Penedès wine region of Catalonia, Spain. The tasting featured 28 wineries and over 60 wines meant to showcase Penedès's 10 distinct terroirs and indigenous grape varieties like Xarel·lo, Macabeu, and Sumoll.
There was consensus among the panelists that the wines demonstrated impressive diversity, with mineral-driven examples along more richly textured offerings, all tied together by vibrant acidity. We debated whether Penedès would be best served marketing itself primarily behind its flagship Xarel·lo in the style of Albariño from Rías Baíxas or emphasizing its range of grape varieties and winemaking styles. Ultimately we felt the latter approach would capitalize on current consumer thirst for discovery.
The entire region is making swift progress toward organic certification, with over 80% of its vineyards currently following organic viticulture. This sustainability push, along with natural diversity in the face of climate change, innovative projects breeding disease-resistant crossed varieties, and potential associations with Barcelona's dynamic culinary scene, are unique selling points that set Penedès apart in a crowded global marketplace.
