Overlooking the Mediterranean and sheltered by the Pyrenees is the wine region of Empordá in Catalonia. For three generations, the Espelt family have been respected grape growers in this special place where the Pyrenees meet the sea, in Cap de Creus. Luís and Quimeta Espelt were already renowned growers when they decided to build their cellar in 2000. Their son, Damià, an agricultural engineer, expanded operations and took many of the decisions that shaped Espelt into what it is today. Anna, Damià´s daughter, is both a biologist and winemaker and oversees Espelt, focusing on the native varieties and heritage of vine growing in Empordá. It is said that people from Empordá are strong-willed and hot-headed. This is known as ‘Rauxa’, and it is this tenacious character that has driven the grape growers of the region to nurture vines in such a challenging land. While grapes grow alongside the enchanting scenery of Cap de Creus, the vineyards are also forced to survive against the brutal nature of the powerful winds of the area. The strongest is known as Tramontana, a harsh and obstinate inland wind. The wines of the region are born out of this contrasting rage and beauty, expressing their character, poetry, and endurance. The land is made up of slate and patched with granite and each soil lends different structure and characteristics to Espelt’s wines, ranging from fresh, elegant, and easy to drink to riper, more tannic, and powerful. Espelt focuses on growing native varieties from the Mediterranean and the Empordá including Grenache, Carinyena, Monastrell, Syrah, Macabeo, and Moscatel. The family ensures the best expression of each variety through the careful cultivation of vineyards and respect for the environment through organic viticulture. The wines are unique expressions of the terroir and microclimate.