Binissalem & Wine Country

Binissalem is the center of the Mallorcan wine renaissance. The small town (8,000 inhabitants) at the foot of the Serra de Tramuntana gives its name to the oldest and most important wine-growing denomination in Mallorca: DO Binissalem, protected since 1990. On about 600 hectares of vineyards, around 15 wineries produce wines that have attracted international attention in recent years.

The native grape varieties make the difference. Manto Negro is the leading red variety: fruit-driven, velvety tannins, aromas of red berries and herbs — perfect with Mallorcan roast lamb. Callet, the second red variety, is wilder and more complex. Prensal Blanc (also called Moll) delivers fresh, mineral white wines with citrus aromas. In addition, international varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chardonnay thrive excellently here in the Mediterranean climate.

The most important wineries for visitors:

José L. Ferrer (winery founded in 1931, the largest and best known) offers daily tours with tastings — about €15–20 per person, duration about 1 hour. Modern winery with impressive architecture, wide range from simple to premium. The Veritas Dolç (sweet wine) is a must.

Macià Batle (since 1856) has a particularly beautiful winery with an art gallery (each year a different artist designs the bottle label). Tour with tasting of 4 wines about €18–25, duration 1.5 hours. The premium line (Pagos de María, Reserva Privada) is excellent.

Bodegas Vins Nadal (smaller, family-run) offers personal tours with the winemaker himself, if you call in advance. Especially the 110 Manto Negro has won international awards. Tasting from €12.

Tianna Negre (modern, biodynamic) is the newcomer: stylish architecture, innovative wines, Instagram-worthy winery. Tour with tasting and tapas about €30–40.

The Binissalem wine festival (Festa des Vermar) takes place every year on the last weekend of September and is a spectacle: The village square is covered with grapes (Batalla de Raïm), wine flows by the liter, live music and dancing until late at night. One of the most authentic village festivals in Mallorca.

The village itself is pretty: a large parish church (Església de Santa Maria de Robines), elegant manor houses from the 17th/18th century (Can Gelabert, Can Sabater), narrow streets of golden sandstone. A walk after the wine tasting is worthwhile.