The Designation of Origin Catalonia was established in 1999 in a drive to join forces in the region, in order to offer the best assurances of distinctive and effective quality. Today, the DO covers 16,000 hectares of vineyards and continues to strive for top quality in its wines, as well as supporting research and cutting-edge technology, considered an essential response to shifting market demands. To consolidate and to grow, to create and to innovate are the appellation’s guiding principles.

Over the centuries, the land currently covered by DO Cataluña has offered the world ample proof of its winemaking potential, supported by exceptional natural conditions. Indeed, a broad diversity of soil types, microclimates and terrains, in addition to a privileged location in north-eastern Spain, between the Mediterranean and the Pyrenees, ensure variety, quality and continuity, all guided by the wisest tradition.

Under the Phoenicians and Greeks, the Mediterranean became an open door to vine growing and the wine market. The Romans then took over, expanding the market’s scope and promoting intensive growing. Despite their ban on alcoholic beverages, the Moors never stopped growing grapes. It was the establishment of the monastic orders in the 12th and 13th centuries that truly asserted the region’s winemaking tradition, as in other parts of the country. The Cartujan and Cistercian brothers became leaders in viticulture and winemaking techniques, achieving wines of outstanding quality that earned pride of place amongst the feudal nobility.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, demand for Catalonian wine in northern Europe and the overseas colonies prompted and expansion of vineyards throughout the entire region.