Cartoixa de Montsalvat is a family-run winery in la Vilella Alta, in the heart of Priorat, run by Francesc Sánchez-Bas and his son Alexander. The estate farms six parcels spread across la Vilella Alta, la Vilella Baixa and Torroja, growing varieties typical of the region — Garnacha, Cariñena, Macabeo, Trepat Blanc, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon — some on pre-phylloxera vines. The vineyards grow on llicorella, the slate soil characteristic of Priorat, poor in nutrients and forcing roots deep underground, which produces concentrated grapes with a marked personality. Farming is artisanal, family-based and free of chemical inputs.
The winery produces four wines, each with its own profile: Montclass (Garnacha, Cariñena and Syrah, aged 8 months in oak) is the most approachable and fruit-forward; Montgarnatx (65% Garnacha, 35% Cariñena, 12 months in oak) is more structured and elegant; Montsalvat, the top-tier wine (90% Cariñena, 10% Garnacha, 18 months in French oak), stands out for its mineral complexity, with notes of smoke, leather and slate; and Blanc de Montsalvat (Macabeo, Garnacha Blanca, Moscatel and Trepat Blanc) is an aromatic, mineral-driven white. Its wines have earned notable scores from critics such as Robert Parker (up to 95 points for Montsalvat and 96 for the white) and James Suckling. The winery also produces an artisanal vermouth.
Cartoixa de Montsalvat offers personalized visits and tastings at the estate, mainly on weekends, with advance booking required for weekday visits.
Visits and contact
- VisitsVisits by appointment
- Visiting hoursMainly weekends; other days by advance booking
- BookingAn appointment is required to visit the winery
- What is includedwine tasting, cellar tour
- AddressCarrer Ereta 10, 43375 la Vilella Alta
- Phone+34 977 839 299
- Emailinfo@montsalvat.eu
ℹ️ Hours and prices can change: check with the establishment before you visit.
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Photo: le-de.cdn-website.com · licence not stated
Sources: cartoixademontsalvat.com · doqpriorat.org