Five Unique Expressions to Discover Their Versatility
Catalonia, Land of Historic Ranci Wines
A Tradition to Be Enjoyed at the Table
When chestnuts, panellets, and lingering post-meal conversations arrive, vi ranci (ranci wines) reclaim their place at the table. Oxidative aging imparts remarkable complexity, showcasing aromas of roasted nuts, candied fruit, toasted notes, and sweet spices. We have selected five bottles from Montsant, Priorat, and Bages that illustrate different approaches to this winemaking tradition, ranging from accessible entry points to long-aged solera reserves.
At what temperature should they be served? Recommendations vary depending on the style and occasion. Classic tasting criteria from the International Association of Sommeliers (ASI) and WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) study materials place these wines between 12 and 14 °C (54–57 °F) to highlight their complex aromas. Conversely, many contemporary wineries and sommeliers suggest serving them cooler, between 8 and 10 °C (46–50 °F), to moderate the perception of alcohol and heighten freshness. This lighter approach also allows the wine to evolve gracefully in the glass as it warms. The choice ultimately depends on the character of the bottle and personal preference.
De Muller Ranci Sec · De Muller
From DO Tarragona, this dry ranci wine is a blend of 40% White Grenache, 40% Red Grenache, and 20% Carignan, with 17% ABV. Fully fermented and oxidatively aged through a solera system, it maintains an active solera dating back to 1954. Amber in color with copper highlights, it reveals aromas of toasted nuts, dried figs, dried apricots, and smoky oak, paired with a silky, intense, and persistent palate. Serve chilled between 8–10 ºC. Approximate price: €8.50.
👉🏼 IIdeal as an autumn aperitif due to its toasted, lingering nuances.
👉🏼 Web: De Muller
Orto Vi Ranci Clàssic · Orto Vins
From DO Montsant, this dry white ranci is crafted from 90% White Grenache and 10% Macabeo sourced from 40 to 60-year-old vines. Bottled at 16% ABV, it ages for 10 years across 16 family oak and chestnut casks following the traditional “bóta del racó” (corner barrel) method, without added alcohol. Featuring a bright mahogany color, it delivers aromas of walnuts, mint, dried fruits, sour caramel, and vanilla. Unctuous and well-balanced, it leaves a long, persistent finish. Serve at 12–14 °C. Approximate price: €33–37.
👉🏼 Pairs excellently with aged cheeses and nuts thanks to its depth and balance.
👉🏼 Web: Orto Vins
Ranci ÈTIM · Celler ÈTIM
From DO Montsant, this white ranci wine is made with Grenache and Carignan and has 16% ABV. After fermentation, it spends one year outdoors exposed to the elements (“sun and night air”) in glass demijohns before aging for a minimum of three years in 500–600 liter oak barrels. Dark amber with mahogany rims, it offers aromas of toasted nuts, toasted bread, candied fruit, quince, dried figs, cinnamon, and vanilla. Refined, balanced, and lingering on the palate, with a delicate sweet touch and a dry finish. Serve at 12–14 °C. Approximate price: €8–10.
👉🏼Perfect for an autumn gathering alongside dried fruits and traditional nut desserts (postres de músic).
👉🏼 Web: Ètim Celler
Arrels Vi de Mare · Arrels del Priorat
From DOQ Priorat, this ranci wine is made from 100% late-harvested Grenache grown on steep llicorella (slate) soils, bottled at 18% ABV. Fermented and oxidatively aged in a solera system, it incorporates mother wines (mares) up to 100 years old, aged in century-old chestnut and French oak casks. Dark amber with golden highlights, it showcases notes of hazelnut, almond, honey, candied apple, quince paste, raisins, and mineral undertones. Glyceric, silky, and complex, with a long-lasting finish. Serve at 14–16 °C. Approximate price: €49–55 (50 cl bottle). 96 Parker points.
👉🏼 Ideal for a special occasion paired with apple tart or caramelized pears..
👉🏼 Web: Arrels del Priorat
Abadal Sagristia C-1 · Abadal
From the Bages region (without DO classification), this dry ranci at 19.5% ABV is a blend of small extractions from four casks at Masia Roqueta, combining different wine styles aged between 40 and 70 years in century-old barrels. Limited to a production of just 1,387 bottles, it displays aromas of ripe fruit, prunes, citrus, almond, walnut, and pastry, along with intriguing notes of tofu. Rich, smooth, concentrated, and balanced on the palate. Serve at 12–14 °C. Approximate price: €70–90.
👉🏼Outstanding for a gourmet post-meal pairing with aged cheeses or citrus-based desserts.
👉🏼 Web: Abadal
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