The Terroir
The magnificent vineyard terraces that can be seen today on the estate required a great deal of work and major investment.
The project began with extensive restoration work, cleaning undergrowth, uprooting trees, rebuilding collapsed walls using deep tillers to remove old roots and bring the stones to surface. These stones are then removed before ploughing followed by several passes with a chisel plough and enriching the soil with organic manure.
A unique feature of the estate is the removal of large granite blocks, generally spherical (sometimes weighing several tons). These blocks of Hercynian origin (300-350 million years old) are remnants of the decomposition of the Granite Massifs. The significant mineral presence likely explains the origin of the name Quera, derived from Latin pre-indo European word ker, meaning rock or rocky place.
Next came the marking out of plots and the planting and trellising of the future vineyards.
Two and a half years of intensive work for a result that today lives up to the investment made.
The first plantings began in 2021 on plots located at an altitude of 600 meters, all facing south.
The altitude is now a major advantage. Faced with climate change and sudden temperature variations, the area benefits during the summer from temperatures at least 5°C lower than the plains as well as more balanced humidity and almost constant air circulation.
These natural conditions promote less stressed vines, producing healthier grapes and requiring less intervention. They have naturally reinforced the family’s commitment to producing organic wines.
The result is more balanced, less alcoholic aromatic and expressive wines true to their terroir and the altitude from which they originate.
Grape Varieties
The majority of our vineyards are located within the DO Empordà appellation.
However, this delimitation does not currently extend to the neighbouring municipality of LA VAJOL, where our winery is located.
Although these plots are directly contiguous, located on the same terroir and in the immediate vicinity of the estate’s other vineyards, the wines produced from them cannot currently benefit from the DO Empordà appellation. An official extension of the Empordà DO is under consideration to remedy this situation, a process that still requires time.
In this context we have chosen to favour grape varieties traditionally planted within the Do Empordà appellation, in perfect harmony with our terroir, our altitude and the identity we wish to give to our wines.
White grape varieties
Sauvignon Blanc
Here it expresses all its finesse, offering delicate aromas and a beautiful freshness.
Grenache Blanc
A very expressive full bodied persistent grape variety bringing length and balance on the palate.
Grenache Rouge (Grenache Gris in France)
First harvest in 2025, a promising grape variety that is showing great potential.
Muscat of Alexandria
Recognisable for its aromatic richness, it brings intensity and complexity to the wine.
Red grape varieties
Syrah
A grape variety that finds ideal conditions here to allow it to deliver its full expression, far from excessive heat.
Grenache Noir
Aromatic and balanced, it produces wines that are fresher and less alcoholic than those from the plains.
Cabernet Franc
It brings structure, depth of colour and controlled power, while maintaining a measured alcohol level.
Other plots
Two ploys located in Agullana, approximately 250 metres altitude, have been acquired and will be vinified by the estate starting in 2025:
Cabernet Sauvignon (vines over 30 years old)
It helps to strengthen the structure and power of certain assemblies.
Carignan Noir (old vines)
A grape variety which, unlike others, appreciates heat more and brings character and authenticity.
Organic viticulture
At the estate, organic viticulture was a natural choice perfectly suited to the site, its altitude and its preserved natural environment. Working in the vineyard is based on a respectful and reasoned approach prioritising observation, prevention and minimal intervention.
The altitude, cooler climate and constant air circulation naturally limit disease pressures. This reduces stress on the vines, significantly decreasing the need for treatments and promoting more precise manual labour for each individual plot.
This organic approach prioritises grape quality above all else. It yields healthier, more balanced and expressive grapes, faithfully reflecting the granite terroir and the estate’s unique character. The resulting wines are distinguished by their freshness, aromatic purity and natural balance, reflecting a commitment to sustainable viticulture.