Spain’s Priorat Wine Region: Small but Mighty

Perhaps you’d like to see the original Scala Dei vineyard area, where Priorat’s wine history began. Today, the Scala Dei vineyards are partially owned by Grupo Codorníu, and the wines produced there are bottled under the Cellers Scala Dei label. The winery is open from 9:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. and from 3:00 to 6:00 P.M. daily; calling ahead is preferred.

Of course, there’s more to see in Priorat than wineries. The ruins of the Scala Dei monastery, known today as the Carthusian Monastery of Escaladei, are open Tuesday through Sunday. Escaladei was Spain’s first Carthusian monastery, as well as the home of Priorat’s first vineyards.

You can also visit the Natural Park of La Serra del Monsant, the rocky mountain range above Priorat’s hills and vineyards. Here you’ll find prehistoric caves as well as medieval hermitage buildings dedicated to Saint Anthony Abbot, Mary, the mother of God, and other saints. You can hike into the hills to watch wildlife or enjoy a guided nature walk. Some of the park’s free events are presented in English.

Wherever you go in Priorat, you’ll see the vineyards, symbols of the region’s new prestige. When it comes to wine, Priorat’s presence isn’t measured by the acre, but by its quality.