Vine growing on Formentera has been a deeply rooted practice in the heart of this island community for centuries. In fact, the link between Formentera's society and the world of wine is indisputable. The vi pagès (Catalan for 'farmer's wine'), made in many homes on the island, is a testament to this tradition. Proof of this is the annual home-made wine competition, organised as one of the most important events of the local festivities of Sant Francesc Xavier and Sant Ferran.

Currently, the wine produced by Formentera's wineries is protected by a geographical indication: Vi de la Terra de Formentera. This ensures that both its origin and quality are preserved. With this in mind, each sip represents centuries of tradition, the spirit and character of the island, where passion and respect for the land merge to give life to unique and extraordinary wines.

Characteristics of Formentera wines

Formentera's wines are considered a jewel in the world of wine. The characteristics of the land, the climate and the proximity to the sea make them wines with a high alcohol content. They are intense in colour and boast pure, crystalline aromas, which are particularly popular with consumers.

The red grape varieties used are monastrell, fogoneu, tempranillo, cabernet sauvignon, merlot and syrah; and the white grape varieties used are malvasía, prensal blanco, chardonnay, viognier, garnacha blanca and moscatel de grano menudo.

These wines from Formentera are unique because some are extracted from free-standing vines as opposed to elsewhere in Europe, where they are made from American vines. This is because in the 19th century there was a plague that destroyed a large part of the vines on the continent. To combat it, European vines were grafted onto American roots, which were resistant to the plague. However, in Formentera the plants survived, probably due to their isolation, and this grafting process did not occur. The advantage of these vines is that the main root penetrates to a great depth and makes better use of the minerals in the soil.

The two wineries that produce it, located very close to two of Formentera's emblematic lighthouses, offer guided tours and tastings.

Bodega Terramoll

Terramoll is a family winery that offers exquisite organic wines. It is located on the La Mola high plateau and, as a result, its vines are constantly bathed by the sea breeze. They work minimising the environmental impact of their vine growing activities: they dry-farmed and they do not use chemicals, herbicides or mineral fertilisers. This means that their production is very limited, a small gastronomic treasure that reflects the nature of Formentera. They produce white and red wines and vermouth, as well as offering guided tours and private and group tastings, including local products from the island.

Bodega Cap de Barbaria

Located some 6 kilometres from Sant Francesc, the capital of Formentera, Bodega Cap de Barbaria embodies the essence of the region's winemaking tradition. Here, they work with carefully selected grape varieties to produce red and sweet wines that capture the authenticity of the land where they grow. From robust Cabernet Sauvignons to aromatic Fogoneus, each sip is a sensory journey through the island's unique landscapes and flavours. The winery offers guided tours, providing visitors with the opportunity to discover the winemaking process, followed by a tasting of their exquisite creations.

Treat yourself to an authentic experience and explore the island's wine heritage, while enjoying its spectacular natural surroundings and gastronomic delights!