Malvasía Volcánica

Malvasía Volcánica is an ancient white grape variety primarily cultivated in Spain’s Canary Islands, particularly on the island of Lanzarote. It is a natural cross between Malvasía di Lipari (also known as Malvasía de Sitges) and Marmajuelo. While many grape varieties bear the name 'Malvasía,' this particular strain is unique to the volcanic soils of the Canary Islands, making it a distinct and highly sought-after variety.

Malvasía Volcánica wines are typically straw-yellow in color with golden reflections. They are highly aromatic, offering intense notes of citrus, yellow fruits such as apricot, peach, and pear, as well as tropical hints of pineapple. Additional layers of honey and hazelnut can develop with age. The wines are rich in alcohol and may occasionally lack acidity, but they generally have excellent aging potential. In the Canary Islands, Malvasía Volcánica is used to produce a wide range of wines, including dry, semi-sweet, sweet, and even sparkling styles.

Malvasía Volcánica thrives in the volcanic soils of the Canary Islands, particularly Lanzarote, where its cultivation is adapted to the harsh, arid conditions. The variety is well-suited to poor soils and is tolerant of heat, wind, drought, and intense sun exposure. It has moderate to strong vigor but is not highly productive. It buds and ripens early and is resistant to cold temperatures, though it is susceptible to powdery mildew and is a favorite target of birds in the region.

The unique volcanic terroir of Lanzarote gives Malvasía Volcánica wines a distinctive mineral character, setting them apart from other Malvasía varieties found in Europe.

The grapes are often grown in deep hollows dug into volcanic ash to protect them from strong island winds.