Spain: Barcelona, Penedes & Priorat
The Region
These regions southwest of Barcelona are part of “Cataluna”. British wine writer Tony Lord called Penedes the “heartland” of the Spanish viticultural revolution thanks to the Torres family and the science of modern wine-making. Sparkling Cava is the wine most associated with Penedes. Credit also goes to Codorniu and its importation of method champenoise from France. In Priorat the Garnacha grape, a full-bodied, intense red grape with high alcohol content (13.5%) produces wines that are so good they are rivaling Rioja as Spain’s premier wine region.
Barcelona is Gaudi and Gaudi is architecture. The city is on the cutting edge of must see architecture and urban-mix style that reflects Barcelona’s complex culture. Eat! Eat! Eat! The “new wave” chefs, led by Ferran Adrià, have made Barcelona the place for incredible and creative cuisine that critics say rivals that of Paris. Must dos include Quimet & Quimet, the popular tapas emporium and the incredible Bilbao Museum.
Wineries
Here are those we think you’d like: Freixnet, Cordonniu, Cavas Nadal, Parés Baltà, Alvaro Palacios, Clos Mogador, Vall Llach, Clos Erasmus, Rotllan Torra, Mas Doix, Alvaro Palacios, Masia Duch and Cellars de Scala Dei.
Accommodation
In Barcelona, Casa Fuster, a Deluxe Class Historical property with contemporary furnishings or if you prefer being by the harbor and beaches, we suggest Hotel Arts Barcelona and its 2 star Michelin restaurant. Hotel Cal Llops is a boutique situated in the tiny village of Gratallops in the center of the Priorat wine region. In Penedes, your home will be Can Bonastre Wine Resort with just 12 rooms which are unique, modern and minimalist. Their Spa offers sauna, vapor bath, indoor swimming pool with water jets and a special wine therapy treatment.
Suggested Tours
5 Star Barcelona, Penedes & Priorat 7 Nights / 8 days
Inclusions
- 6 days chauffeur – wine expert guide with wonderful local knowledge, insider information and “flavour” that only an experienced and friendly Spanish driver / guide can provide. It’s truly a great value and a relaxing, fun experience.
- 6 days use of private vehicle including fuel
- 7 Nights hotel in shared double/twin room
- 7 Breakfast daily
- 2 gourmet lunches at El Cairat and Restaurant Masia Aran
- 3 gourmet dinner: one at Cal Llops, one with Flamenco show and one a multi-course Tapa Tasting Menu in Barcelona at Arola – whose Chef/owner has 2 Michelin stars!
- 1 Private, PhD–led Gaudi Walking Tour
- Entrance & Tour of Picasso Museum
- Flamenco Show
- Artisan olive-oil tasting
- Organ recital
- 7 Winery visits and all wine tasting fees
Exclusions
- Round trip international airfare
- Customs fees, alcoholic beverages, wine and dining that is not specifically included in itinerary and…
- Personal items such as laundry, dry-cleaning, telephone, tips and taxis.
Pricing
Price per person double occupancy is from $6,899.00…but can be as low as $4,954.00 when 6 like-minded gourmet dining and wine enthusiasts travel together (e.g. 3 couples).
The Fine Print
All prices shown are per person double occupancy (twin share) and subject to change due to currency fluctuations until deposit and ultimately depend on preferred accommodation, number of guests and type/size of vehicle.
N.B. Restaurants, Hotels and Winery Owner/Wine Consultant Lunches may change based on availability of seats, rooms, or individuals. Substitutes will be of equal or greater value and interest
4+ Star Penedes & Priorat 5 Nights and 6 days
Inclusions
- 6 days chauffeur – wine expert guide with wonderful local knowledge, insider information and “flavour” that only an experienced and friendly Spanish driver / guide can provide. It’s truly a great value and a relaxing, fun experience.
- 6 days use of private vehicle including fuel
- 5 Nights hotel in shared double/twin room
- 5 Breakfast daily
- 2 gourmet lunches at El Cairat and Restaurant Masia Aran
- 1 gourmet dinner at Cal Llops
- Artisan olive-oil tasting
- Organ recital
- 7 Winery visits and all wine tasting fees
Exclusions
- International airfare and customs fees
- alcoholic beverages, wine and dining that is not specifically included in itinerary and…
- personal items such as laundry, dry-cleaning, telephone, tips and taxis.
Pricing
Price per person double occupancy is from $5,399.00…but can be as low as $3,479.00 when 6 like-minded gourmet dining and wine enthusiasts travel together (e.g. 3 couples).
The Fine Print
All prices shown are per person double occupancy (twin share) and subject to change due to currency fluctuations until deposit and ultimately depend on preferred accommodation, number of guests and type/size of vehicle.
N.B. Restaurants, Hotels and Winery Owner/Wine Consultant Lunches may change based on availability of seats, rooms, or individuals. Substitutes will be of equal or greater value and interest