Mediterranean Grenache at Its Purest
Aires de Garbet is a wine that embodies the essence of Empordà (northeast Spain), where Garnatxa, the region's signature variety, finds its most expressive form. Crafted by Perelada, it originates from the iconic Finca Garbet—a spectacular vineyard overlooking the Mediterranean and one of the most renowned vineyards in Spain. This unique location harmonizes the four elements of life: the warmth of the sun, the character of its slate soil, the relentless tramontana, and the nearby sea, inspiring the creation of this exceptional wine each year.
The Terroir’s Influence on Personality
Beyond being intrinsic to the identity of the location, these elements significantly shape Aires de Garbet's personality:
- The slate soil yields low-yield grapes of exceptional quality.
- Solar radiation, reflected by the sea at the foot of the estate, aids optimal ripening.
- The tramontana wind, a defining force of Empordà, sculpts the vines, subjecting them to water stress, resulting in small yet intensely flavorful grapes.
- The sea’s thermoregulatory effect controls the maturity of the vines.
A Wine That Captures Its Environment
Aires de Garbet reflects biodiversity, encapsulating the surrounding vegetation—from hints of fennel and rosemary to the presence of pine—expressed sublimely in every glass.
Aged for 12 months (80% in 3,800L foudres and 20% in 300L French oak barrels), the 2020 vintage displays a deep cherry-red color with violet tones. Its aromatic profile evokes the Mediterranean, with notes of aromatic herbs, red fruits, and a balsamic background. On the palate, it is fresh, intense, and well-balanced, showcasing its varietal personality with mature, enveloping tannins and a silky texture. This elegant wine boasts a long aftertaste and remarkable aging potential.
Perelada: A Legacy of Winemaking Excellence
Perelada stands as one of the flagship wineries of D.O. Empordà, one of Spain’s oldest wine regions, defined by its location between the Pyrenees and the Mediterranean. Its origins trace back to 1923, when the Mateu family, pioneers in the metal industry and founders of the automotive firm Hispano Suiza, settled in Perelada Castle, Girona. There, they fulfilled a visionary dream: to revitalize Empordà’s long winemaking tradition.
In 2022, after three generations, the Suqué Mateu family completed their mission with the inauguration of a state-of-the-art winery, the first in Europe to achieve LEED® Gold certification—the highest-level international distinction in sustainable building.
Designed by the renowned RCR Arquitectes (2017 Pritzker Prize winners), the winery seamlessly blends landscape architecture, oenology, and top-tier wine tourism.
Over the years, Perelada has established a distinct identity with wines such as:
- Gran Claustro,
- Finca Malaveïna,
- The acclaimed Finca Garbet (ranked among the 10 best wines in Catalonia),
- 1923-2023 Centenario, its highest-tier wine to date.
