Catalonia, named the World Region of Gastronomy in 2025

Throughout 2025, the eyes of gastronomy enthusiasts worldwide will turn to Catalonia, which has been chosen as the World Region of Gastronomy by the International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts, and Tourism (IGCAT), a nonprofit organization that has been collaborating with consortia of regional entities and agents in the fields of gastronomy, culture, arts, and tourism since 2010.

Catalonia is the first European region to receive this distinction, which will allow the world to discover the wealth of a territory boasting over thirty DOs and IGPs, as well as a constellation of Michelin-starred chefs at the forefront of global gastronomy.

Wines, olive oil, cheeses…

Catalonia is a treasure trove of flavors, thanks to its rich variety of Denominations of Origin (DO), which guarantee the quality and authenticity of local products. In the world of wine, the region boasts 11 DOs, including the prestigious Priorat DOCa, known for its bold and structured reds, and the diverse Penedès DO, famed for its white wines, and Cava DO, with its outstanding sparkling wines. Other notable areas like Empordà DO, Montsant DO, and Terra Alta DO showcase the unique character of Catalonia's terroir, producing exceptional reds, rosés, and whites with indigenous varieties like garnacha and macabeo. Beyond wine, the olive oils are just as impressive, with five DOPs such as Siurana and Les Garrigues, celebrated for their fruity and well-balanced profiles. Meanwhile, local specialties like the Avellana de Reus (Reus hazelnut) and Pera de Lleida (Lleida pear) add a touch of sweetness to the region's culinary offerings.

Cheese lovers will also find plenty to savor, as Catalonia is home to DOP cheeses like Alt Urgell i Cerdanya, made with cow’s milk in the Pyrenean foothills, offering a creamy, mild flavor. Butter from the same region, also protected under a DOP, is prized for its rich and delicate taste, perfect for pairing with artisanal breads or baking. These certified products capture the essence of Catalonia’s gastronomic heritage, combining tradition, quality, and a deep connection to the land. Whether you’re sipping a glass of Costers del Segre DO wine or spreading DOP butter on fresh toast, every bite and sip tells a story of this vibrant region.

Vegetables, sweets, cured meats…

Catalonia also boasts ten outstanding products with the Indicación Geográfica Protegida (IGP) label, each deeply rooted in the region's culinary traditions. From the iconic Calçot de Valls, a sweet and tender spring onion perfect for barbecues, to the juicy Clementinas de les Terres de l’Ebre, these IGP products highlight the diversity of Catalan agriculture. Meat lovers can savor the rich flavors of Gall (black chicken) del Penedès and Pollo (chicken) del Prat, or enjoy the exceptional quality of Ternera (veal) de los Pirineos Catalanes. Meanwhile, traditional cold cut delicacies like the Salchichón de Vic, a dry-cured sausage, and the Turró d’Agramunt, a nougat-style treat, are must-tries for any foodie. Even staples like Pa de Pagès Català, a rustic sourdough bread, and Patatas de Prades, potatoes known for their creamy texture, showcase the region’s commitment to excellence. With Girona’s crisp, flavorful apples rounding out the list, these IGP products are a testament to Catalonia’s rich culinary heritage.