The ingenious wines birthed from black volcanic craters

 ##The Unique Vineyards of Lanzarote

The conical hollows of Lanzarote are built in volcanic ash (Credit: Turismo de Islas Canarias)

##Enigmatic Landscape:
Lanzarote's vineyards stand as a testament to nature's resilience and human ingenuity amidst volcanic adversity. The black volcanic craters, remnants of past eruptions, create a surreal yet captivating backdrop for the island's winemaking legacy.

##Geological Marvel:
Situated amidst the Canary Islands, Lanzarote's geological makeup is a marvel shaped by centuries of volcanic activity. The island's volcanic ash-laden terrain, marked by conical hollows, challenges traditional notions of fertile vineyard landscapes.

##Historical Transformations:
The eruptions of the 18th century drastically altered Lanzarote's landscape, forcing locals to adapt and innovate. What was once fertile land for cereals became unsuitable, prompting a shift towards cultivating resilient grapevines that could withstand the harsh conditions.

##Environmental Challenges:
Lanzarote's winemakers face formidable environmental challenges, including minimal rainfall, strong trade winds, and recurring dust storms from the Sahara. These adversities have necessitated creative agricultural practices and resourceful solutions.

##Innovative Farming Techniques:
To thrive in such hostile environments, farmers have developed innovative farming techniques. The use of volcanic ash, known as picón, has become a secret ingredient in nurturing vineyards and enhancing soil fertility despite limited water resources.

##Cultural Resilience:
The winemaking heritage of Lanzarote reflects the resilience and determination of its people. Despite natural calamities and inhospitable conditions, they have preserved and evolved their viticultural traditions, creating wines that embody the island's rugged charm and unique terroir.

##A Taste of Terroir:
Lanzarote's wines, characterized by their distinct volcanic influence, offer a taste of the island's terroir. From crisp whites to robust reds, each bottle encapsulates the dramatic landscape and centuries-old winemaking craftsmanship, making them truly exceptional and sought-after treasures.

The hoyos, or conical hollows, have a unique ability to capture moisture for the vines (Credit: Turismo Lanzarote)

##Ingenious Vineyard Engineering


##Hoyos: The Ingenious Solution
In Lanzarote's challenging volcanic terrain, farmers devised a brilliant solution known as "hoyos" or conical hollows. These hoyos, measuring three meters wide by three to four meters deep, revolutionized winemaking on the island.

##Water Collection and Retention
The conical shape of hoyos acts as a natural water collector, capturing sparse rain and dew and funneling it to the grapevines' roots. Additionally, the thick layer of picón (volcanic ash) in the hoyos draws moisture from the air, maintaining soil moisture levels and regulating temperature.

##Protective Walls
To shield the vines from harsh winds and prevent erosion, low semi-circular walls made from lava stones are constructed on the north-eastern side of each hoyo. These walls also safeguard the hoyos' slopes from collapse, ensuring the vines' roots remain undisturbed by the volcanic ash.

##Rise from the Ashes: Wine Heritage

##Malvasía Volcánica Dominance
Lanzarote's winemaking legacy revolves around Malvasía Volcánica, a unique white grape variety exclusive to the Canary Islands. This grape accounts for 60% of the island's wine production, complemented by other varieties like Listán Blanco, Vijariego Blanco, Moscatel de Alejandría, Listán Negro, and Syrah.

##Old Vines and Phylloxera Resistance
Remarkably, some vineyards boast nearly 200-year-old vines, unaffected by the phylloxera epidemic that devastated European wineries in the 1800s. Lanzarote's sandy volcanic soil and unique climate provide a natural defense against pests, ensuring the health and longevity of these historic vines.

##Terroir and Unique Wine Characteristics

##Natural Elements' Influence
Lanzarote's terroir, shaped by its volcanic landscape and oceanic winds, imparts distinct characteristics to its wines. The controlled temperatures, sandy soils, and minimal rainfall contribute to wines with bold acidity, vibrant fruit notes, and a crisp, refreshing finish.

##Human Touch and Herculean Efforts
Beyond the natural elements, it's the dedication and resilience of Lanzarote's growers that make these wines truly exceptional. The manual labor required in the vineyards, including careful entry and exit from hoyos, showcases the human element integral to Lanzarote's winemaking heritage.

##Harvesting in Adversity

##Manual Labor and Dedication
The grape harvest in Lanzarote is a labor-intensive process carried out under challenging conditions. Workers traverse the vineyards on foot, carrying heavy crates of grapes in scorching 27°C heat. This manual labor, repeated dozens of times, showcases the dedication and resilience of Lanzarote's winemakers.

##Traditional Methods and Personal Touch
The traditional approach to winemaking in Lanzarote emphasizes the importance of hands-on care and attention. Small producers like Finca Ramón honor their growers by maintaining single-vineyard wines, preserving the unique qualities of each vineyard's grapes and the dedication of its caretaker.

##The Next Generation of Winemakers

##Young Enologists' Passion
A new generation of winemakers, led by individuals like Daniel Martín and Elisa Ludeña, is bringing fresh passion and innovation to Lanzarote's wine industry. With a deep respect for the land and growers, they aim to express the love and sacrifice embedded in every grape they harvest.

##Attracting New Growers
Despite the aging demographic of grape growers in Lanzarote, there is optimism that more young people will enter the industry. Higher prices for grapes reflect the recognition of growers' efforts and the need to attract new talent to sustain the island's wine production.

##Adapting to Challenges

##Climate Change and Resilience
Lanzarote's winemaking faces challenges like climate change, evident in reduced winter rainfall and more frequent calima events. Yet, the island's wineries have a history of adaptation, showcasing resilience in the face of adversity and the determination to preserve their unique winemaking heritage.