Wine Down in Ibiza
Ibiza has long existed as one of many wine growing regions along the Mediterranean, thought few would know it. Production of wine began in Ibiza in the 7th Century B.C. by the Phoenicians and was taken to another level by the Romans thereafter. In more recent times, viticulturists have taken a keen interest in nurturing this natural island harvest. Evidence of which can be seen from many of the luxury villas on Ibiza that surround the wine-growing region.
“Vino de la tierra de Ibiza” was a new regulation and certification passed in 2003 by the Spanish government incorporating the certification and distinction for wines made with one single variety of grape. It also introduced new quality controls to monitor production. Together these distinctions have elevated the world’s perception of the Ibiza wine industry. Of late many more wine connoisseurs and casual drinkers are choosing an Ibiza bottle over some of the better known wine producing countries.
The island geography and climate of Ibiza is ideal for wine growing. Ibiza is formed by two large mountains, in between which there are little valleys with steep sides making them well suited to the growing of vineyards and cultivation of wine. Many visitors to the island enjoy touring the many vineyards the countryside has to offer around their luxury villa to rent on Ibiza and tasting the different variations of grape.
Soil on the island is of a reddish-brown clay combination with a surface of chalk crust. Temperatures are typical of a subtropical Mediterranean climate, with plenty of sunshine, hot humid summers and mild winters, low rainfall in the autumn months make for ideal growing conditions.
Key Red Varities:
- Monastrell
- Ull de Llebre
- Merlot
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Syrah
White Varieties:
- Macabeo
- Chardonnay
- Moscatel
- Parellada
- Malvasia
Ibiza wines are differentiated based on their “Vino de la tierra” which is the geographical identification to distinguish traditional wines from the island of Ibiza. Currently, only a limited number of wines are produced with “Vino de la tierra Ibiza” designation. They are directed to a small group of clientele and are not easily available.
There are 4 wineries on Ibiza. These include: Ca’n Rich de Buscastell, Vins de Tanys Mediterrains, S.L., Ca’n Maymo and Bodega SA Cova. Many luxury villas to rent on Ibiza surround these wineries making an enjoyable stroll in the countryside even more enjoyable if they end with a glass of local produce.
Combined, the total surface area of these vineyards covers 31.09 hectares with the total annual wine production of 1,139.50 HL. Rent a luxury villa Ibiza in December and visit the town of San Mateu and witness the “Sant Mateu Wine Festival” where growers present their new young wines to an eagerly awaiting crowd.
Ibiza has some very distinct red varieties especially those made from Moastrell grapes. This grape traditionally grows well on an island with a good degree of adaptability and produces clear, bright and cherry to dark red coloured wines. When sifting there’s a predominance of aromas reminiscent of ripe fruit (strawberries) and a hint of perfume (thyme). Taste-wise these are full-bodied, heavy, well-rounded and warm wines with a long finish. Enjoy in peace or as part of a healthy Mediterranean meal these fine wines from the comfort of your own rented luxury villa. As for whites, Macabeo grapes stand out the most. Again the aroma of this crushed grape is reminiscent of ripe fruit, apples this time and flowers. The taste has a fresh, refined, well-balanced flavour, ending with a light fruity finish.
The control and certification system is regulated for all bottles with a “Vino de la tierra de Ibiza” label. Geographical indications are commercialized with an official control number allocated by the Department of Agriculture to identify Ibiza produced wines; these can be found on every bottle.
Please visit our Villa Collection page for our full selection of luxury villas to rent on Ibiza or for further details on any of our villas in Ibiza to rent contact us via phone, email or our onsite enquiry form.
Posted in our Blog - Wednesday, 13 April 2011 13:02
