Lanzarote wine – why it’s the best!
If you think Lanzarote is all sun, sea, sand and tourists – think again! The white, red and rosé wine produced from Lanzarote’s volcanic ash are a revelation.
The huge volcanic eruptions of the 1730s covered much of the rich farmland (a third of the island) in thick layers of fine black gravel (picón) were initially, believed to be an absolute disaster. However, it was soon discovered that picón absorbs condensation and rain, slowly releasing moisture and keeping the roots of plants cool.
The Islanders quickly discovered that vines thrived in these conditions and started to produce wine. A traditional method of planting is to dig a hole of up to 3 mtrs and build crescent shaped walls of volcanic rock to protect the vines against the strong trade winds. The vines have historically been manually harvested and whilst you will still see the traditional vines dotted across the landscape of Lanzarote, you will also see regimented lines of vines. A method which is growing in popularity because of the potential to increase the yield threefold.
Lanzarote wine is an institution of its own, with its unique D.O (designation of Origin) awarded in 1993. Lanzarote wines have been highly appreciated across the globe and catalogued as some of the finest in the world. The main grapes used in Lanzarote wine production are:
White wine: Malvasia, Moscatel, Burrablanca, Diego, Listan Blanco, Pedro Ximenes
Red wine: Listan Negro and Negramoll
Today, the Malvasia wines produced here consistently win international prizes. They have a characteristic light fruity flavour and are very crisp and dry, making them the perfect accompaniment to the many fish dishes of Lanzarote’s traditional cuisine. Once you’ve tried a glass of Lanzarote wine, we guarantee you’ll be hunting out the local wines for the rest of your holiday… Salut!
Wine production is becoming a very important part of the Spanish economy and is a sector that is growing year on year, and a key reason why there are a lot of activities and events surrounding wine and gastronomy in Lanzarote.
Fiesta de la Vendimia
Join workers at La Geria winery to honour the harvest in traditional style. Camels transport the pickers and you are invited to have a go at treading the grapes!
Saborea Lanzarote food and wine festival
The largest food and wine festival in the Canary islands showcasing the best Lanzarote has to offer and many associated activities.
Many Lanzarote wines are becoming more widely available in the local shops, supermarkets and around the world! so make sure to get your bottle!
