The oldest winery in Lanzarote is El Grifo, which was founded in 1775. This makes it not only the oldest winery on the island, but also one of the ten oldest wineries in all of Spain. The history of El Grifo is deeply intertwined with the volcanic eruptions that occurred on the island in the 18th century.
In 1730, a series of volcanic eruptions began in Lanzarote, lasting for six years. These eruptions resulted in the destruction of vast areas of agricultural land, including vineyards. However, in the aftermath of the eruptions, the fertile volcanic soil left behind proved to be ideal for vine cultivation. This led to the establishment of El Grifo winery in 1775, as the first vineyards were replanted.
El Grifo winery has remained in operation for over two centuries, passing down through generations of the same family. Today, it holds a family vineyard spanning 50 hectares around the winery. This vineyard is home to a variety of grape varieties, including Malvasía, Moscatel, Listán Negro, and Diego, among others.
The winemaking process at El Grifo is carried out with great care and attention to detail. The winery utilizes traditional methods combined with modern techniques to produce exceptional wines. The grapes are handpicked and carefully selected before being fermented in stainless steel tanks or oak barrels, depending on the desired style of wine.
El Grifo produces about half a million bottles of wine every year, all of which bear the prestigious Lanzarote Guarantee of Origin. This certification ensures that the wines produced by the winery meet strict quality standards and are representative of the unique terroir of Lanzarote.
Having personally visited El Grifo winery, I can attest to the rich history and dedication to winemaking that permeates the entire establishment. The vineyards are beautifully maintained, and the winery itself is a charming blend of old and new. The tasting room offers visitors the opportunity to sample a wide range of wines, allowing them to fully appreciate the flavors and characteristics of Lanzarote.
El Grifo is the oldest winery in Lanzarote and one of the oldest in Spain. Its deep-rooted history and commitment to producing high-quality wines have earned it a well-deserved reputation in the wine industry. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or simply appreciate the art of winemaking, a visit to El Grifo is a must when in Lanzarote.