Winemaking Mallorca: Life Is Too Short To Drink Bad Wine
Winemaking is a family affair in Mallorca, an art that has been passed down from one generation to the next at most of Mallorca’s wineries. The Romans brought the first vines to the island in 123 BC, along with their vine-growing and winemaking activities. Since then, the art of winemaking has an intrinsic part of Mallorca’s cultural and plays an essential supporting role in the island’s economy nowadays.
“Stop and smell the wine.”
The winemaking process of many of the Mallorcan vineyards has significantly advanced over the last few years. Most vineyards employ the latest technology with stainless steel installations and storage tanks, sophisticated refrigeration and temperature control for the fermentation process, and maturing of the wine in oak barrels. The Balearic Councilor introduced a quality standard that can only be used by wines grown, produced, and bottled in Mallorca and the ‘Denominación de Origen’. This designation guarantees the quality of Mallorcan wines.
In Mallorca, you can find great wineries in Mallorca sprinkled throughout the island, although the best-known wines are produced in Binissalem; the Pla & Llevant, and the foothills of the Tramuntana mountains, where the microclimate created by the mountains makes the production of this region distinctive to this area.
The best wineries combine delectable wines that you can sample on the premises, along with a place to relax and enjoy the view, making those experiences an ideal add-on to your weekend break or vacation.
“Two tastings in a day is relaxed. Three is efficient. Four or more tastings is work.”
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A rule of thumb: “Two tastings in a day is relaxed. Three is efficient. Four or more tastings is work.” So we picked out three that will surely keep you coming back for more.
Bodegas Castell Miquel
Located in the Tramuntana mountains, near the towns of Alaró and Lloseta, prize-winning Bodegas Castell Miquel, is a beautiful wine estate of about 16 hectares surrounded by 500-year-old dry stone walls.
The winery was born from its owner’s passion for wine, the German pharmaceutical professor Dr. Michael Popp. Its wines have become known for their unique flavor, and health properties, the most popular brands are ‘Stairway to Heaven’ cabernet sauvignon wine and ‘Pearls of an Angel’ cava. The other wines are made by mixing the grapes from their vineyards in Binissalem and Porreres with the grapes grown on the terraces in Alaró, which gives them a unique flavor and taste.
Be prepared for a challenging drive up may if you visit but expect some of the most beautiful sights in Mallorca.
“Making good wine is a skill; making fine wine is an art.”
Robert Mondavi
Bodegas Son Vives
Son Vives Winery is located in the heart of the Tramuntana mountains, a Unesco Heritage Site since 2011. On this magical site Toni Darder, owner and Sommelier of the estate, will always welcome his guests attentively and offer them a unique experience combining wine and gastronomy.
When the winery was established in 1986, the Darder family embarked on what could be described as the “Malvasia project.” They, along with other winemakers from the area, supported by the University of the Illes Balears and the department of rural affairs (la Conselleria de Agricultura), decided to replant the Malvasia grape, improve the viticulture and quality of this local grape variety.
Malvasia Vines
It has been hard work, but Malvasia vines are thriving once again after many years, and Son Vives produces excellent wines. The vines are planted on terraces by the coast, in a unique spot between the Tramuntana Mountains range and the sea, from where you will enjoy one of the most impressive views in Mallorca.
Son Vives production is the sum of its unique microclimate, the dedicated work in the vineyards, and the modern facilities in the winery. Today they produce two white wines, two reds, and in the best vintages, a sweet wine made of Malvasia grapes.
Visitors are always welcome at Son Vives. Visits and wine tastings are offered throughout the year. Toni and his team offer a wide range of options. You can enjoy two glasses of his wines paired with sobrasada and cheese or lunch or dinner on the patio overlooking the vineyards or the bodegas. The most curious will love to walk through the vineyards learn more about the Malvasia project.
Bodegas Es Verger
Es Verger is located in the Sierra de Tramuntana, 450 m above sea level, in the municipality of Esporles. Es Verger’s winemaking tradition goes back to the 50s when the family produced wine Mantonegro in Santa Maria del Cami . More varieties have been added over time, and they currently produce Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Viognier.
Apart from the Mantonegro wines, they currently produce Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Viognier.
Es Verger also makes award-winning olive oils with the designation of origin ” Oli de Mallorca “and runs a restaurant serving one of Mallorca’s finest specialties, the Paletilla de Cordero (Shoulder of lamb).
Discover some of the best wines that Mallorca has to offer, in stunning bodegas and incredible scenery. Small personalised tours of up to 7 people.
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The Best of Mallorca team is made up of people who are in love with Mallorca, each with unique experiences and insights to share with you. From adventure, to gastronomy and lifestyle their hobbies and interests range far and wide. They are passionate about turning your time in Mallorca into meaningful memories and bringing you inspiring ideas to enjoy this beautiful island.
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