Discover Perelada: A Journey Through Time, Innovation and Sustainability

Discover Perelada: A Journey Through Time, Innovation and Sustainability

Nestled in the heart of Catalonia’s Empordà region, Perelada Winerystands as a beacon of winemaking excellence and cultural significance. Founded in 1923 by the visionary Mateu family, Perelada has evolved from a historical castle-based operation into a modern icon of quality, innovation and sustainability.

Below, we delve into the winery’s deep history, pioneering spirit, sustainable practices and unique offerings. The story of how and why Perelada remains a prestigious name in the global wine industry is as rich as the wines it makes.

A Legacy Rooted in History 

Perelada Winery’s origins date back to the early 20th century, when the Mateu family, driven by a passion for art, acquired the medieval Perelada Castle. Upon their arrival, they discovered the cellars beneath the Convent del Carme, a heritage site that inspired them to revitalize the winemaking tradition. This ambitious project breathed new life into the cellars, which today add unique charm and legacy to the winery. The family’s vision bore fruit quickly, as Perelada wines began attracting acclaim from around the world. Today, the Castle is also home to valuable artistic treasures, a church, a library with over 80,000 volumes, and a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Many of the winery’s early successes were tied to the selection of its bottles for prestigious events, including those attended by notable figures such as the U.S. Presidents Eisenhower, Nixon and Ford. Indeed, among the jewels of Perelada’s offerings is the Gran Claustro cava, which was first crafted in 1959 to commemorate President Eisenhower’s visit that year to Spain. This cava remains a lasting symbol of Perelada’s enduring excellence and historical significance.

Milestones of Innovation and Quality

Perelada’s journey is marked by a continuous evolution that blends tradition with forward thinking. The 1960s were particularly groundbreaking, with the introduction of Perelada’s rosé cava. The ground-breaking product was wildly popular, and even became a favorite of the legendary artist Salvador Dalí.

Perelada originally called the offering “champagne,” which sparked a dispute with the French wine region of Champagne that culminated in the latter seeking exclusive rights to the term. As a result, the Cava Designation of Origin (D.O.) was established in 1972. This designation helped solidify Perelada’s reputation as a pioneer in the cava industry, setting new standards for quality and craftsmanship.

The 1990s ushered in a new era of growth and modernization under the leadership of Javier Suqué Mateu, the fourth generation of the founding family. This period saw significant investments in both vineyards and winemaking facilities. These investments have yielded award-winning wines such as Finca Garbet and the prestigious Gran Claustro. The focus on quality and innovation during this era ensured that Perelada remained at the forefront of the wine industry.

The New Perelada Winery: A Sustainable Marvel

In 2022, Perelada unveiled its new winery, an architectural marvel designed by the esteemed Pritzker Prize-winning firm RCR Arquitectes. This state-of-the-art facility represents the pinnacle of modern enology while exemplifying the winery’s profound commitment to sustainability. It proudly holds the distinction of being the first European winery to achieve LEED® Gold certification.

The design of the new facility incorporates a range of eco-friendly features. Geothermal energy systems provide a sustainable source of power, while advanced water and electricity efficiency measures ensure minimal environmental impact. Additionally, a gravity-based production system minimizes mechanical intervention, preserving the integrity of the wines and further demonstrating Perelada’s dedication to high-quality and environmentally responsible winemaking.

Commitment to the Environment and Biodiversity 

Perelada’s commitment to sustainability runs deep. The winery employs a range of sustainable viticulture practices, including regenerative techniques that enhance soil health and promote ecological balance, while minimizing the use of chemical additives. In addition, by 2025 all of their vineyards will be ecological. They already have three vineyards that are ecological, reflecting their dedication to environmentally friendly practices.

The operation’s focus on biodiversity conservation is particularly notable, with initiatives like the reintroduction of storks into the gardens of Castillo Perelada and the use of recycled water for irrigation.

The unique character of Perelada’s wines is deeply rooted in the diverse terroir of its five distinct estates. Each estate contributes its own distinct influence, from the rugged terraces of Finca Garbet to the to the red clay sandy soils of Malaveïna, shaping the complex flavor profiles of Perelada’s offerings. This meticulous attention to the characteristics of each estate reflects the winery’s commitment to showcasing the true essence of Empordà, setting Perelada apart as a leader in both quality and authenticity in the wine world.

A Symphony of Terroir and Craftsmanship

Perelada wines stand out for their distinctive expressions of terroir and quality. The 5 Finques wine captures the essence of Perelada’s five estates, blending Merlot, Syrah, Samsó, Grenache and Monastrell to create a rich and complex profile that reflects the varied soils and climates of the estates. The wine’s depth and versatility make it an excellent choice for pairing with a wide range of dishes or enjoying on its own.

In contrast, Finca Garbet showcases the unique characteristics of the Garbet vineyard with a single-varietal Syrah. Influenced by the Mediterranean climate, slate soil and the tramontana wind, this wine features intense aromas of ripe fruit, balsamic notes and herbs. Its exceptional balance and roundness highlight the artisanal craftsmanship behind its production.

Both wines offer high quality and a true sense of their origins, appealing to both casual drinkers and connoisseurs alike.

An Unforgettable Wine Tourism Destination

 Perelada offers a truly immersive cultural and tourism experience. Visitors are welcomed by the breathtaking medieval castle, which not only boasts a renowned art collection but also hosts the Castell Perelada Festival—one of Europe’s premier opera and dance events.

The estate further delights guests with a Michelin-starred restaurant, where world-class cuisine is paired with Perelada’s exceptional wines. Complementing this culinary experience are a luxurious five-star hotel, a rejuvenating wine spa and a top-tier golf course, ensuring that every aspect of a visit is met with comfort and elegance.

Perelada invites you to embark on a journey where history, innovation, and sustainability converge in an extraordinary array of experiences. Celebrating its centennial in 2023, the winery continues to stand as a beacon of heritage and modernity, captivating wine enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

For more information and to plan your visit, explore Perelada’s offerings on its official website and become part of their exceptional journey.

The post Discover Perelada: A Journey Through Time, Innovation and Sustainability appeared first on Wine Enthusiast.



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