Alvaro Palacios Winery Guide

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Last updated: November 22, 2023

Winery Overview

Alvaro Palacios, driven by his passion for winemaking and relentless pursuit of excellence, has left an indelible mark on the wine industry. His decision to step away from the comfort of his family’s esteemed winery, Palacios Remondo, and venture into uncharted territories is a testament to his dynamic vision and unwavering determination. Enriched by his enology studies in Bordeaux and mentored by the revered Jean Pierre Moueix, the mastermind behind the renowned Pomerol superstar Château Pétrus, Palacios honed his skills and refined his craft to a level of mastery.

In 1989, Alvaro Palacios laid the foundation for his winery in the enchanting wine region of Priorat, nestled amidst the scenic landscapes south of Barcelona in Tarragona. Collaborating with the esteemed winemaker René Barbier and a carefully selected group of individuals, they embarked on an audacious venture known as the “Gratallops Project,” paying homage to the captivating village where their exceptional wines would come to life. Initially pooling their resources, the group acquired vineyards and shared vinification facilities, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and collective growth until each member eventually established their individual estates.

Alvaro Palacios set his sights on a lofty goal: to bridge the gap between the legendary Château Pétrus and the iconic Grange. Such an ambition presented a monumental challenge, demanding the utmost dedication and craftsmanship. Yet, Palacios’ unwavering commitment yielded phenomenal results, garnering extraordinary acclaim for his three remarkable wines: Finca Dofí, L’Ermita, and Les Terrasses. Alongside fellow luminaries Peter Sisseck at Pingus in Ribera del Duero and Telmo Rodriguez in Toro, Palacios is revered as a trailblazer among the “new generation” of Spanish winemakers, breathing new life and innovation into the country’s viticultural landscape.

The wines crafted by Alvaro Palacios have achieved a cult-like following and have become the subject of genuine admiration on esteemed wine magazines’ pages. Expert Spanish wine specialist John Radford aptly captures the essence of Palacios’ creations, summarizing their excellence by proclaiming, “Les Terrasses is excellent, Finca Dofí is outstanding, and L’Ermita is simply unbelievable.” Through his unwavering dedication, visionary approach, and mastery of winemaking, Alvaro Palacios has secured his rightful place as one of the most revered and celebrated figures in the world of wine.