The wines of Lanzarote are a unique oenological jewel, the result of the adaptation of winegrowers to an inhospitable volcanic landscape. The island of Lanzarote stands out for its ability to grow vines in a seemingly hostile environment, creating some of the most distinctive and unique wines in Spain.
The key to this extreme viticulture is found in La Geria, one of the most iconic wine regions on the island, which has been able to transform adversity into wealth through agricultural techniques that date back centuries. La Geria extends in the heart of Lanzarote, over some 5,225 hectares that are protected as a natural landscape. What most attracts the visitor’s attention is the way in which the vines are grown: in small holes, dug in the volcanic terrain and protected by stone walls in the shape of a semicircle, known as “souks”. These structures serve to protect plants from the wind and at the same time take advantage of the humidity that accumulates in the subsoil during the night. The volcanic terrain, which appears arid and dry, is actually very fertile, as the ash and volcanic rocks help retain moisture, creating a perfect microclimate for growing grapes.
Among the grape varieties that predominate in La Geria, the Malvasía Volcánica is the most famous.White wines of exceptional quality are made with it, fresh, fruity and with a subtle mineral touch that makes them unique. Other varieties are also grown such as Listán Negro, which produces full-bodied reds, and Listán Blanco, which provides fresh and floral nuances to white wines. Lanzarote wines have gained international recognition, standing out not only for their flavor, but also for their unique production process and the history they carry with them.
Getting to La Geria from Puerto del Carmen, one of the main tourist destinations in Lanzarote, is quite simple. The distance is approximately 15 kilometers and can be accessed by car in about 20 minutes. The journey is made mainly on the LZ-504 and then on the LZ-30, the road that runs through the heart of La Geria. During the tour, travelers will be able to enjoy unique landscapes, where the contrasts between the black of the volcanic earth and the green of the vines create an impressive view. Additionally, along the way, it is possible to visit several traditional wineries that offer wine tastings and guided tours to learn more about the region’s wine culture.
La Geria is a must-visit for wine lovers and for those who wish to discover one of the most unique wine-growing areas in the world. The wines of Lanzarote, born in the adversity of the volcanic terrain, are further proof of the human being’s ability to adapt and thrive in the most challenging environments.
