Gratallops, Priorat Spain

Priorat is the second largest wine producing area in Spain to Rioja.

Wine making in the area can be traced back 800 years. It is also one of only two areas in Spain to be given the 'qualified' DOQ label. Similar to the DOC label from Italy.

Gratallops is a small ancient town in the region approx 80km drive from L'Amettla del mar.

First impression is that it has a very

Montepluciano look and feel to it. It's not big but what it lacks in size it makes up for in cellar doors. I counted 18 but I'm sure there's more. And there would be at least 20 restaurants. All in an area that inhabits only 250 locals.

The smells that come out of windows and doorways are amazing. Couple that with the scent of the local flora that's scattered everywhere and its quite something.

As far as activity goes there's dead and then there's this place. That said It doesn't make one bit of difference to the feel of it.

I saw two other people walking the streets while I was there and it was 1pm on a Monday.

It is really really picturesque and when an old lady opens her door and allows the classical music to sound out down the lane ways it's finally complete.