In this latest article in Elite Traveler’s ongoing Spain series, we take a closer look at the best bodegas in Mallorca.
From Rioja to Extremadura, Spain has an embarrassment of riches when it comes to vine-growing land. Wine exports are worth $3.4bn to the Spanish economy, but some of its finest produce never leaves its borders.
Mallorca produces a huge amount of wine for its size yet much of it remains on the Balearic island. You must travel to this beautiful rocky outcrop if you want to sample its unique wines. Here, we list the very best bodegas and vineyards to visit during your stay.
Bodega Ribas
Located in the Mallorcan village of Consell, Bodega Ribas has been mastering the art of winemaking for over 300 years. It is the oldest bodega on the entire island and has remained a family business throughout its existence.
A high percentage of its grapes are native varieties such as Mantonegro and Prensal. The 100-acre vineyards are still harvested by hand according to traditional techniques in order to preserve the level of quality demanded by the Ribas family.
Visitors can take a guided tour through the vineyards and the bodega followed by a traditional Mallorcan meal inside the 18th-century family home.
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Bodega Can Majoral
This vineyard was founded in 1979 with the aim of growing high-quality organic wine. To this day, the owners have not lost sight of that original ambition and now produce arguably the finest organic wine available in the Algaida region from a mixture of 14 native and international varieties.
Every year, 200 volunteers come together for the full moon harvest. Wine enthusiasts from across the world put their names on a waiting list to be part of this annual tradition, which finishes with a gourmet feast. Tours and tastings are also available for those not wishing to get their hands dirty.
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Bodegas Antonio Nadal
Established in 1968, Bodegas Antonio Nadal was the first vineyard in Mallorca to obtain the DO (Denominación de Origen) Binissalem mark thanks to the work from its founder of the same name. The business altered to selling grapes to other vineyards under to management of Antonio’s daughter, but recently German Nadal – a third generation manager – has brought it back to its former glory. There is still some way to go before they are producing the same quality of wines but early harvest suggests they are on the right track. Guests can book a wine tasting as well as a gastronomic tour of the area.
Bodega Biniagual
This bodega doubles up as a picturesque hamlet exclusively for use by the employees. The houses have been beautifully restored and are worth a visit in themselves regardless of the exceptional wine. The winemakers have been internationally recognized for their work and use no fertilizer to ensure their wines meet exacting standards. This is also the only vineyard in Mallorca to make a truly great Gran Veran. Guests can book a private guided tour of Finca Biniagual where a seasoned expert will explain the art of Mallorcan winemaking before the inevitable tasting session.
