Marco Abella, situated in the prestigious wine region of Priorat in Spain, is a winery steeped in a rich history and a deep dedication to quality and excellence. This family-run estate, nestled in the rugged, mineral-laden hills of Llicorella, represents the pinnacle of winemaking in this celebrated region, producing wines that are not only reflective of their terroir but also of their commitment to sustainable and organic practices.
The Marco Abella winery is named after the family that has owned and cultivated the land for generations. The family’s story is interwoven with the history of the Priorat region itself, a place renowned for its unique slate and quartz soil known as ‘Llicorella’. This challenging terrain, combined with the region’s hot summers and cool winters, creates the perfect conditions for growing the varieties of grapes that Marco Abella specialises in, primarily Garnacha and Cariñena.
The vineyards of Marco Abella are situated at various altitudes, ranging from 350 to 700 meters above sea level. This variation in elevation contributes to the complexity and depth of their wines, as each vineyard parcel expresses a different aspect of the region’s terroir. The higher-altitude vineyards bring freshness and elegance to the wines, while the lower-altitude parcels contribute structure and intensity.
Marco Abella is committed to organic farming practices, with a deep respect for the environment and the biodiversity of the region. They eschew the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilisers, instead opting for natural alternatives to maintain the health and vitality of their vineyards. This commitment to sustainability extends to every aspect of their operation, from the vineyard to the winery.
The winemaking process at Marco Abella is a blend of tradition and innovation. The grapes are hand-harvested and meticulously sorted to ensure that only the best fruit makes it into their wines. In the winery, the team employs a combination of stainless steel tanks and French oak barrels to ferment and age their wines, striking a balance between preserving the fruit’s natural character and adding complexity and nuance through oak ageing.
The wines of Marco Abella are characterised by their elegance, balance, and depth. They express the unique characteristics of the Priorat terroir, with intense aromas and flavours of dark fruit, spices, and minerality. The winery’s flagship wine, Clos Abella, is a testament to their winemaking philosophy, showcasing the perfect harmony between the Garnacha and Cariñena varieties and delivering a wine that is both powerful and refined.
Marco Abella also produces a range of other exceptional wines, each offering a different expression of the Priorat region. Their ‘Olbia’ wine, named after the ancient Iberian settlement that once stood on the property, is a blend of Garnacha, Cariñena, and Cabernet Sauvignon, offering a modern take on the traditional Priorat style. The ‘Mas Mallola’ wine, on the other hand, is a pure expression of the estate’s old-vine Garnacha, delivering a wine that is both concentrated and graceful.
The dedication to quality and excellence at Marco Abella extends beyond the vineyards and the winery. The family is deeply involved in every aspect of the winemaking process, from the cultivation of the grapes to the ageing of the wines. Their passion for the land, the grapes, and the wines they produce is evident in every bottle, making Marco Abella a true ambassador for the Priorat region and its wines.