The DO Pla de Bages Wine Route: an oenotourism journey through history and nature

Ruta del Vino DO Pla de Bages

Located in the heart of Catalonia, at the foot of the imposing Montserrat mountain, the DO Pla de Bages Wine Route has established itself as a leading oenotourism destination. Its combination of history, landscape, and quality wines makes it a unique proposition within the Spanish wine scene.

A Centuries-Old Wine Legacy

The winemaking tradition of Pla de Bages dates back to the Middle Ages, when the Sant Benet de Bages monastery promoted vine cultivation in the region. However, it was in the 19th century that this area reached its peak, becoming the region with the largest vineyard area in all of Catalonia, with more than 27,000 hectares planted.

Despite the decline brought by phylloxera, history resurged with the creation of the Pla de Bages Designation of Origin at the end of the 20th century, marking the rebirth of a wine territory committed to the quality and uniqueness of its wines.

Ruta del Vino DO Pla de Bages

Image: Ruta del Vino DO Pla de Bages

Today, Pla de Bages preserves a valuable agricultural heritage, with characteristic elements such as wine vats at the foot of the vineyard and dry stone huts, witnesses to the efforts of generations of winegrowers who have shaped the landscape of the region. This environment has been recognised as a UNESCO Global Geopark, highlighting its natural and cultural richness.

A Varied and Enriching Oenotourism Offer

The DO Pla de Bages Wine Route offers a variety of experiences that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the culture of wine. With 15 visitable wineries, each with its own identity, the route caters to those looking to discover new varieties as well as those who wish to delve into the history and production processes of local wines.

Among the standout experiences are guided tours of wineries with tastings of wines made from native varieties such as picapoll and mandó, pairings with local gastronomic products, and routes through the wine landscapes by bike or on foot. Additionally, the route includes wine bars, accommodations, restaurants specialising in local cuisine, and events celebrating wine culture, such as the Fira ViBa and the Bages Harvest Festival.

For those seeking an even deeper immersion, the DO Pla de Bages Wine Route offers more than 30 unique eno-experiences, ranging from eno-gastronomic activities to wellness, art, and active tourism proposals. This diversified offer makes the route an ideal destination for both wine experts and those wishing to embark on this fascinating world.

Innovation and Commitment to Quality

The DO Pla de Bages Wine Route stands out not only for its historical legacy but also for its capacity for innovation and sustainability. Thanks to close collaboration between wineries, institutions, and tourism entities, a model of responsible oenotourism has been developed that is committed to authenticity and the preservation of the territory.

The use of native varieties is one of the keys to the success of Pla de Bages wines. The recovery of picapoll, a white grape with great aromatic potential, and mandó, an elegant and fresh red grape, demonstrates the DO’s commitment to biodiversity and differentiation. Additionally, many wineries have implemented organic viticulture practices and winemaking techniques that respect the environment, ensuring sustainable and high-quality production.

The route also values training and generational renewal in the wine sector, promoting initiatives that ensure the continuity of the winemaking tradition in the region. This comprehensive approach reinforces its position as a leading oenotourism destination in Catalonia and the rest of Spain.

Ruta del Vino DO Pla de Bages

Image: Ruta del Vino DO Pla de Bages

Discover the DO Pla de Bages Wine Route in Valladolid

The Valladolid Fair is the perfect setting to get to know the DO Pla de Bages Wine Route in depth and discover why this destination has become a benchmark for oenotourism. From its rich history and impressive heritage to its varied offer of experiences and commitment to quality, this route offers everything needed to enjoy wine to the fullest.

Visitors to the fair will be able to obtain first-hand information about the tours, wineries, and activities that make up the route. Additionally, it will be an excellent opportunity to taste some of the most representative wines of the DO Pla de Bages and plan a future oenotourism getaway to this unique corner of Catalonia.