Celler de Capçanes — The Masterful Expression of Montsant
Where a Historic Cooperative Meets Exceptional Terroir
In the heart of Montsant, in the village of Capçanes, lies one of the most compelling and respected cooperatives in Catalonia. Founded in 1933 by five wine-growing families, Celler de Capçanes has become a benchmark for precision, terroir expression, and technical excellence.
Since the 1990s, its qualitative rise has been driven by two key figures: Anna Rovira, the talented winemaker, and Jürgen Wagner, the architect of the estate’s international development. Their shared vision has elevated Capçanes to the forefront of modern Catalonian wine.
Terroirs & Geology — Montsant’s Mineral Mosaic
The vineyard spans parcels with striking geological diversity, reflecting the immense complexity of Montsant:
- granite,
- limestone,
- clay,
- sandy soils,
- llicorella (schist), Catalonia’s iconic stone.
Combined with Mediterranean influence and significant diurnal shifts, these soils elevate the region’s classic grapes — Grenache, Cariñena, Syrah, White Grenache. Capçanes’ parcel-by-parcel philosophy allows for an exceptionally precise reading of Montsant’s terroirs.
Philosophy & Practices — Cooperative Craftsmanship & Modern Precision
Celler de Capçanes remains loyal to its cooperative identity while operating at the highest technical level.
- 100% manual harvesting,
- strict parcel selection,
- indigenous-yeast fermentations,
- minimal intervention,
- tailored ageing: stainless steel, foudres, barrels, amphorae,
- a continuous pursuit of purity, balance, and energy.
Under the guidance of Anna Rovira, every cuvée aims to express its origin with authenticity — never excess.
Kosher Innovation — A Landmark Turning Point
In 1995, Capçanes became the first Spanish winery to produce kosher Lo-Mevushal wines under strict rabbinical supervision. This pioneering move propelled the domaine onto the international stage and remains one of its defining pillars.
Style — Mediterranean Freshness, Mineral Depth & Controlled Power
Capçanes wines are modern yet balanced, characterised by:
- vibrant aromatics (red and black fruit, flowers, Mediterranean herbs),
- striking minerality, especially on schist,
- elegant texture without heaviness,
- natural freshness despite the warm climate,
- long, linear, energetic finishes.
Key Cuvées
Peraj Ha’abib (Flor de Primavera)
The estate’s iconic kosher wine. Grenache, Cariñena, Syrah. Monumental structure, deep minerality, outstanding ageing potential.
La Nit de les Garnatxes
A unique project showcasing Grenache across four soil types — sand, clay, limestone, llicorella. A terroir manifesto.
Cabrida
Grenache from centenary vines. One of Catalonia’s greatest Grenaches — tension, complexity, depth.
Mas Donìs, Mas Collet, Costers del Gravet
More accessible but always precise, balanced, and delicious.
Conclusion
Celler de Capçanes stands today as one of the most consistent and inspiring estates in Montsant. It combines a strong cooperative identity with rigorous parcel management, technical mastery, and pioneering expertise in premium kosher wine. A reference point for understanding modern Catalonian viticulture.