Montsant DO

Question 1

Describe the growing area of the Montsant DO

Answer 1

• Forms a ring around the Priorat DOQ
• Most vineyards in the south of the region, where land flattens at valley of River Ebro
• More Mediterranean influence than Priorat - closer to the sea;
• Serra de Llaberia provides some shelter; less temperature extremes through summer and winter
• Warm dry summers, rain through winter and spring
• Some northern vinyeards; cooler, higher altitude (300-700m above sea level)

Question 2

Describe the soils of the Montsant DO

Answer 2

• Mixture; ranging from clay to sandy
• Patches of llicorella towards south
• North east soils are higher in limestone content; more fertile than Priorat; higher yeilding

Question 3

Describe the vineyards of Montsant DO

Answer 3

• Easier to work, less extreme topography, particularly further south
• Vineyards terraced to reduce soil erosion, retains water; similar to Priorat
• Trellised vineyards are common, more mechanisation, some bush vines

Question 4

What are the grape varieties in Montsant DO

Answer 4

• 94% black grapes; 2/3rds Garnacha & Carinena
• Tempranillo next most planted
• Significant plantings of Syrah, Merlot & Cabernet Sauvignon

Question 5

Describe the wines & winemaking of the Montsant DO

Answer 5

• Most wines are blends, but not uncommon for single varietal wines of Garnacha and Carinena
• Red wines matured in 1 or 2 years in French or American Oak.
• Wine style depends on varieties used; wines generally (mostly southern) are ripe, fruity, full bodied w/ high abv.
• Medium + acidity is common in cooler areas, providing freshness
• Good to very good
• Mid priced and some premium & super premium wines
• Small amount of white wine from Garnacha Blanca & Macabeo

Question 6

Describe the wine business of Montsant DO

Answer 6

• 1,900 ha of vineyards from 700 grape growers
• 50 wineries
• Co-operatives majority of production
• DO status gained in 2001 leading to significant producer growth; Priorat winemakers have ventures in the area, attracted by cheaper land
• 40% of wine exported to Germany, USA, France, Switzerland and UK as key markets