Priorat encompasses several different microclimates. Generally,
the climate is more extreme than most continental areas although there are
marked contrasts between valleys and highlands. Thus, there are cold northern
winds, but these are buffered by the Montsant massif, and the warm Mistral blows
in from the east. Summers are long, hot and dry (maximum temperature 35°) while
winters are cold (minimum temperature -4°C). There is the occasional risk of
frost, hailstones and drought. The average annual temperature is 15°C, and
average annual rainfall is 400-600 mm.
Montsant Massif
Unlike most prized vineyards in the Northern hemisphere, which
face south and capture maximum sun and heat, many in Priorat faces
northeast. Adequate sun and heat is never a problem in Priorat. Quite the
contrary, the northeast exposure means the shade of the afternoon protects the
grapes from the intense heat of the sun. The elevation of the vineyards and
their exposure to the sea also mitigate the heat.
Priorat vineyards often face northeast to protect the grapes
from the afternoon sun
