The five year long eruptions of 1775 in the Timanfaya area of Lanzarote transformed the landscape. Grape vines could not grow in Lanzarote before 1775. Once the eruptions ceased the whole area was covered in a layer of ash. The ash accidentally revolutionised crop growth across the whole island.
Before an ash or ‘rofe’ covering of the top soil crops struggled to grow. The top soil when in direct view of the sun dried up and blew away. Once the top soil was covered and protected it did not blow away and moisture was contained.
Lanzarote wine growers or ‘Bodegas’ armed with this top soil protection system could now grow grapes. The bodegas then stated digging small round craters (known as Zocos) to plant the grape vines, giving extra shelter from wind.
Grapes could now flourish on Lanzarote.
The grapes, vines now able to grow unmolested by the harsh sun and winds of the island, also took on a unique flavour. The conditions that were once so contrary to grape growth gave a taste to the grape not found anywhere else. The sea air and mineral rich volcanic soil enhanced the grape to then create a wine unlike anywhere else.
La Geria and La Florida were found to be the best places to grow grapes and create wines. This area became the centre of Lanzarote wines and the location of all the wine producers or Bodegas.
Now members of the general public can take a wine tour and visit the bodegas. The wine tours include visiting several bodegas, wine tasting, tapas and educational information on the production of Lanzarote wines.
Follow this link to find out more about Lanzarote wines and its bodegas plus organsed Lanzarote wine tours
Use the wealth of information here to get the very most from your holiday in Lanzarote.