2025 Los Bermejos Malvasia Volcanico Seco Lanzarote Canary Islands

Owned and run by winemaker Ignacio Valdera, Bermejos is on the easternmost island of Lanzarote. Only 125km from the African coast, conditions here are extreme. A volcanic explosion that lasted from 1730-1736 covered the entire island in lava and ash 3-5 meters deep. Consequently, each vine must be planted in a hole or hoyo that breaks through that infertile volcanic crust of petrified lava to the organic matter that can nourish it. The wind, which acts as a natural fungicide, is so ferocious that each hoyo is surrounded by rock walls for protection. The flora on Lanzarote – including the vines – cannot grow up very high; there are not enough nutrients in the soil to support sprawling greenery. All vineyard work is done meticulously by hand. This wine is truly a reflection of the island, made from 100% Malvasia Volcanica, itself a Canary Island crossing of Marmajuelo (an indigenous peach-skinned white grape) and Malvasía Aromatica.