Wine Tourism in Mallorca: A Journey Through the Island's Winemaking Tradition
Renowned for its pleasant climate and natural landscape, the winemaking tradition of Mallorca is one of the island's must-visit attractions. Its location and climate make it an ideal place for wine production, featuring over 70 wineries, 500 wine brands, and two Denominations of Origin. The great variety of high-quality wines has positioned Mallorca as a tourist destination to explore and savor the aromas, textures, and flavors of its wines.
Denomination of Origin Pla i Llevant
With vineyards growing just a few meters above sea level, this Denomination of Origin, Pla i Llevant, boasts 450 hectares of vineyards spread across 19 municipalities in the central and eastern parts of the island. Founded in 1999, this denomination encompasses one of the areas with the richest winemaking traditions in Mallorca, dating back to Roman times in some localities.
With 13 wineries and 70 registered vintners, this Denomination of Origin produces prestigious red, white, rosé, sparkling, liqueur, and needle wines made from native varieties such as Premsal Blanc, Giró Ros, Callet, and Manto Negro, among others. Visiting one of these wineries is a must for wine enthusiasts.
Denomination of Origin Binissalem
Located in the center of the island of Mallorca, the 140 hectares of vineyard within the Denomination of Origin Binissalem spread across a gentle topography protected from northern winds by the Sierra de Tramuntana. Formed by five municipalities with a strong winemaking tradition and rich history, this denomination was established in 1990, and currently, thirteen wineries carry this designation for their red, white, rosé, and sparkling wines.
The most renowned is the red wine, which contains a minimum of 30% of the native variety Manto Negro, giving it a fruity aroma and a not very intense color. The wineries here offer the perfect opportunity to learn about the winemaking process and discover the towns that preserve valuable architectural and cultural heritage.
Geographical Indications of Mallorca
The island of Mallorca also stands out for its three Geographical Indications: Vino de la Tierra de Mallorca, Vino de la Tierra Serra de Tramuntana-Costa Nord, and Vino de la Tierra Illes Balears. The first is made entirely from grapes produced in Mallorca and bottled in the production area, including red varieties such as Callet and Manto Negro, or white varieties like Prensal and Macabeo, among others.
The IG Vino de la Tierra Serra de Tramuntana-Costa Nord is produced in the island's most rugged area, from Andratx to Pollença, with Malvasía being a standout. This white wine is made from a grape of the same name that grows on terraces by the sea. Lastly, the Vino de la Tierra Illes Balears is produced entirely in the Balearic Islands, showcasing white varieties like Chardonnay and Parellada, as well as red varieties like Tempranillo and Pinot Noir, among others.