Alella (DO)

Spanish wine region

Alella is a Denominación de Origen Protegida (DOP) for wines located in the Catalonia region of Spain, near the city of Barcelona. It is one of the smallest and oldest wine regions in Spain, known for its distinctive white wines made primarily from the Pansa Blanca grape, which is the local name for Xarel·lo.

Geography

Location of Alella DOP

Alella is situated in the comarca of Maresme, extending into parts of Vallès Oriental. The region is characterized by its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea, which influences the climate, providing mild temperatures and moderate rainfall. The vineyards are located on the coastal hills, with altitudes ranging from 100 to 400 meters above sea level, benefiting from the sea breezes that help to moderate the climate.

Climate

The climate in Alella is typically Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The region receives an average annual rainfall of about 600 mm, which is concentrated in the autumn and spring months. The sea breezes play a crucial role in cooling the vineyards during the hot summer months, which helps to preserve the acidity and freshness of the wines.

Soil

The soils in Alella are predominantly sandy and granitic, known locally as sauló. These soils are well-drained and poor in organic matter, which encourages the vines to develop deep root systems and produce grapes with concentrated flavors. The sandy texture of the soil also helps to retain heat, which aids in the ripening of the grapes.

Grapes

Map of Alella DOP

The primary grape variety in Alella is Pansa Blanca (Xarel·lo), which is used to produce the region's renowned white wines. Other white grape varieties include Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Garnacha Blanca. For red wines, the main varieties are Garnacha Tinta, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Wine Styles

Alella is best known for its white wines, which are typically fresh, aromatic, and well-balanced, with good acidity and minerality. The wines often exhibit flavors of citrus, green apple, and floral notes. The region also produces red wines, which are generally light to medium-bodied with soft tannins and flavors of red fruits and spices.

Winemaking

The winemaking tradition in Alella dates back to Roman times, and the region has a long history of producing high-quality wines. Modern winemaking techniques are used alongside traditional methods to enhance the quality and expression of the wines. Many producers in Alella focus on sustainable and organic viticulture practices to preserve the natural environment and improve the quality of the grapes.

Related pages

• Catalonia (wine),
• Spanish wine
• Denominación de Origen