Discovering Mallorca: A Hidden Gem for Wine Lovers
Welcome to Camino al Vino – The Journey Begins
As I prepare to kick off this new chapter of Camino al Vino, I wanted to share a little about where we are right now, and where we’re headed.
The official tastings begin in May, when I’ll be on the ground in Mallorca, glass in hand, exploring the island’s vineyards firsthand. But the journey has already started. I’ve been digging into the geography, climate, native grapes, and soil types that define this unique wine region. There’s a lot to discover even before the first sip.
I chose Mallorca as the starting point because we recently moved here from California. I now split my time between Santa Barbara County—specifically Solvang and the Santa Ynez Valley—and this beautiful island. The wines of Mallorca really impressed me, and I knew this was where the story needed to begin.
After Mallorca, the next chapter will take us to Rioja and then deeper into other Spanish regions. From there, we’ll branch out across Europe, always searching for small producers, great wines, and untold stories.
Along the way, I’ll be sharing tasting notes, cooking videos, winemaker interviews, and behind-the-scenes content from the vineyards. This is just the beginning. Thanks for being here. I can’t wait to share what I find.
This blog will follow that journey. As we explore region by region, you’ll get a closer look at where the wines in your shipment come from — the people, the land, the grapes, and the traditions behind them.
And where better to begin than Mallorca?
Welcome to the heart of the Mediterranean — where limestone mountains, ancient vineyards, and salt-kissed breezes shape one of Europe’s most quietly remarkable wine regions.
As the first stop on the Camino al Vino, Mallorca is more than a destination. It’s a story of place, of passion, and of grapes that thrive under sun and stone.
Native Grape Varieties
Mallorca is home to several indigenous grape varieties, many of which are seeing a modern revival:
• Manto Negro – Earthy, spicy, medium-bodied red with soft tannins and wild herb notes.
• Callet – Delicate, red-fruited, and often used in blends.
• Prensal Blanc (Moll) – Soft, floral, citrusy white grape perfect for fresh, Mediterranean whites.
• Fogoneu, Giró Ros, Escursac – Rare but rising in popularity among artisanal producers.
Mallorca’s Wine Regions
The island has two main appellations (DOs), along with independent producers making wine under the “Vi de la Terra Mallorca” classification:
• Binissalem DO – Located in the central plains, known for red clay and limestone soils, and traditional use of native varieties.
• Pla i Llevant DO – Covers much of eastern Mallorca, with diverse soils and a mix of native and international grapes.
Topography & Geography
Mallorca’s landscape is diverse:
• The Tramuntana mountain range dominates the northwest, offering high elevation and cooler microclimates.
• The central plains are warm, dry, and ideal for bold reds.
• The southeast and coastlines enjoy maritime breezes and lighter soils — perfect for whites and rosés.
Soil Types
• Call Vermell (Red Clay + Limestone) – Found in the island’s core, rich and mineral-driven.
• Sandy & Alluvial Soils – Near the coasts, well-draining, resulting in lighter styles.
• Rocky Calcareous Soils – Found in mountainous zones, creating structured, complex wines.
Climate & Growing Conditions
Mallorca has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild, wet winters.
• Summer temps: 28–32°C (82–90°F)
• Winter rainfall: ~450–600 mm (most rain falls October–February)
• Growing season: Budbreak starts in March; harvest runs August–October
• Diurnal shift: Especially in the mountains, cooler nights preserve acidity
These conditions give winemakers the ability to produce ripe, expressive wines with natural balance and freshness.
A Deep-Rooted Wine Culture
Viticulture in Mallorca dates back to Roman times, and despite a phylloxera setback in the 1890s, the island’s wine scene has seen a revival. Today, there are over 70 bodegas — many of them small, family-run estates, working organically and honoring old traditions.
Mallorca’s wine scene is quietly world-class, and still relatively undiscovered — which makes it the perfect place to begin our wine journey.
The Camino Begins Here
Mallorca is only the beginning. Each stop along the Camino al Vino will uncover another story — another bottle, another region, another connection to the land.
Ready to taste the journey?
