DO Penedes D.O. wines awarded at the Gilbert & Gaillard International Challenge

Denominacion de Origen

The Penedès appellation lies in Catalonia, between the provinces of Barcelona and Tarragona, in the hinterland stretching from the Mediterranean coast to the first mountain ranges. The vineyard is divided into ten zones distinguished by soil, altitude and climate: marl and shale at higher elevations, calcareous and clay-gravel soils on the slopes, sandy soils near the coast. The Mediterranean climate, softened by the sea's influence, brings mild winters, strong sunshine and moderate rainfall that varies with altitude, creating a mosaic of microclimates. The traditional white varieties xarel·lo, macabeu and parellada dominate, alongside varieties such as chardonnay, sauvignon blanc and gewürztraminer; among reds, ull de llebre (tempranillo), grenache, samsó, cabernet sauvignon, merlot and syrah are authorized. Since the 2025 harvest, the entire vineyard area of the appellation has been farmed organically, a requirement that sets Penedès apart from other Catalan appellations.

Grape varieties: Vins rouges : tempranillo, grenache, carignan, monastrell. Vins blancs : maccabéo, xarelo, parellada.

The wines of this appellation

Penedès produces white, rosé and red wines, together with a traditional-method sparkling wine known as Clàssic Penedès. The xarel·lo-based whites are fresh, aromatic and lively, with a light body; some are barrel-aged, gaining roundness, warmth and length, with a mineral finish. The rosés stand out for an intense, lingering nose. The reds, built on silky tannins from fully ripe grapes, show body and structure. Clàssic Penedès, made under organic farming with a second fermentation in bottle and a minimum of fifteen months on lees, is balanced and structured. The whites pair with grilled fish, seafood and rice dishes; the rosés suit charcuterie and lighter fare; the reds go well with grilled meats or stews; Clàssic Penedès is well suited to aperitifs or tapas.