It’s time to say chardon-hey to the distinct flavour, aroma and structure of Majorca’s line-up of fine wines. And it’s not all sangria round these parts either, as you can expect to sample crisp whites to deep reds and everything in between.
Ready to explore this brilliant Balearic spot one glass at a time? With more than 70 producers now on the island, it might be tricky to decide where to start, so here’s our guide on everything you need to know about Majorca’s wine…
TOP THREE WINERIES TO VISIT
Bodega Ribas
Step back in time and discover the island’s oldest winery at Bodega Ribas. It’s been producing quality wine for more than 300 years, so it must be doing something right! This traditional vineyard spans around 100 acres in Consell, about a 25-minute drive from Palma, Majorca’s capital. And it’s home to some of the rarest varieties of grape on the island.
You can take a guided tour with a knowledgeable member of staff to the 18th-century manor house and see the original barrel cellar and warehouse. Afterwards, it’s out onto the shaded terrace for a tasting session where you’ll sample three of the best Ribas wines accompanied by artisanal bread and olive oil.
Bodegas Angel
Surrounded by the stunning Sierra Norte mountains, this modern but traditional-style winery is a great choice for wine fans. Although only founded in 2006, Bodegas Angel has made a name for itself among popular Majorcan wines. It’s built in typical Majorcan stone too, so it looks the part when it comes to snapping some Insta-worthy photos.
A tour of the winery accompanied by a tasting experience and tapas is only €16 per person! You can upgrade your visit by opting for a full dinner with your tasting which includes Mahon cheese, paella and cake or sweet wine.
Es Fangar
For a more upmarket tour and tasting experience, head over to the east coast and pay a visit to Es Fangar. This 14th-century, family-owned estate boasts an impressive collection of nine organic and vegan wines. The entire site covers around 1,000 hectares and a huge part of that is blanketed with dense forest.
A visit to this tranquil spot might set you back a bit compared to the others, but it includes a guided tour through the vineyard, olive groves and gardens, and a first-class tasting experience.
TOP THREE WINES TO TRY
Away from the vineyards, here are some of the top tipples to try while you’re here. Look out for them on restaurant menus and ask your waiter which dishes they’ll be best paired with…
WHITE: Binigrau Nounat
RED: 4 Kilos
ROSE: Twenty Twelve Pink – Es Fangar Vins
TOP THREE WINE-PAIRING FOODS
Want to bring out the wine’s flavours and aromas? Pair your wine with one or all of these tapas-style treats, and you’ll be onto a winner.
Mahon cheese
This creamy cheese can be soft or hard and comes from across the shore in neighbouring Menorca. Sprinkle it with black pepper and extra-virgin olive oil to bring out its punchy flavour. Aged Mahon cheese complements the flavours of deep red wines and riojas perfectly.
Chorizo
This cured and smoked pork meat filled with paprika, garlic and salt is a real staple in Spanish cuisine. Whether raw or cooked in a rich sauce, it’s the perfect accompaniment for a mellow white or crisp red.
Spanish olives
Juicy and giant local olives are the ideal snack to enjoy alongside your wine. Laced with olive oil and lemon juice, they can also work well as a palate-cleanser between glasses.
Sip, sip, hooray – book your Majorca break today!
Posted: 18th Jan 2023.