Pyrenees vineyard prepares for harvest
Alt Urgell county contributes to the over 300 hectares of high-altitude viticulture in Catalonia – which is expected to become more widespread due to climate change
Wine is an essential part of Catalan culture – its temperate Mediterranean climate and fertile grounds ideal for the vineyards which are so typical to its scenery. But did you know that even an area high in the Pyrenees has its own wine culture?
The county is called Alt Urgell, bordering with Andorra and, here, the harvest season will begin after the end of this month. And according to local winegrowers, it’s worth your while to have a taste.
Local winegrower Xavier Ribes waxed poetic about the end result: “You won’t find the acidity, the aroma, the sweetness from up here absolutely anywhere else.” “It’s true,” he admitted, “that the productions are quite small, but really,” insisted Ribes, “what’s made here is worth it, it truly is.”
“You won’t find the acidity, the aroma, the sweetness from up here absolutely anywhere else”
Xavier Ribes · Winegrower
This, despite a more difficult season – especially due to the heavy rains seen in Catalonia, which increase the danger of mildew. This, however, can be avoided with careful work.
There are over 300 hectares of mountain vineyards in Catalonia - 16 of which in Alt Urgell. It’s predicted that high-elevation viticulture will become more common in the future, in part due to climate change.
Meanwhile, the upcoming harvest – and its unique wine – is an opportunity to learn more about a complex practice, through a tasty addition to your night out, to your meal, perfect for an autumn night in the Mediterranean.
- Winegrower Xavier Ribes in his vineyard in Montan de Tost on October 10 2018 (by Albert Lijarcio)
