Spanish Wine Regions > Monstant

Wine region's location

Montsant is situated in the province of Tarragona, within the Priorat region. Although only a short distance from the Mediterranean mountains isolate this area, creating a continental style climate which is characterised by huge contrasts in temperature between day and night. This becomes an important factor when maturing the grapes and directly helps to improve their quality. At the same time, the humidity of the Mediterranean winds helps counteract the lack of irrigation in this area. This all adds to the production of wines of great character which are similar to those of neighbouring Priorat. Fortunately they are not yet as fashionable as other areas of Spain and can still be enjoyed at very reasonable prices.

Wine characteristics

White Wines
Mostly based on White Grenache, they are wines with body, good structure and with aromas of Mediterranean herbs. The whites produced with Macabeo are lighter, fresher and fruitier.

Rose Wines
Not very usual in this area. Those made are produced using Red Grenache. They are fruity, heavy in taste but very pleasant and with a very good red berry definition.

Red Wines
Red wines are what the Monsant are famous for. They can be 100% Red Grenache or a mix of Red Grenache with Mazuelo and Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah. They are dark and have a high level of red and black fruit which makes them meaty and strong, mostly of 14% alcohol contents. Similar to, but not as strong as, Priorat wines.

Grapes

Red Grapes
Grenache
Tempranillo
Monastrell
Cabernet Sauvignon
Merlot
Carignen
Syrah
Mazuela

Facts & Figures

Area: 2,058 ha
Average yearly temperature: 16 Celsius
Average yearly water fall: 500 - 600mm