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Grape harvest declared a success in Binissalem, Mallorca
The body governing Binissalem's wine production confirmed that 2011 has been an excellent harvest, resulting in grapes that are expected to produce very good wines.
The harvest officially began on 19th August, some eight days earlier than in 2010, and ended last week on the 18th October. In total 2,767 tonnes of grapes were collected, some 16% less than in 2010.
Three quarters of the grapes harvested were black grape varieties, of which the Manto Negro, native to the island and synonymous with the best wines from the Binissalem DO (Denominación de Origen or ‘controlled appellation'), represented nearly half. It is grown alongside more recognisable ‘international' varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Tempranillo, as well as the local white variety, Prensal Blanc.
Whilst the volume harvested was less than last year, the quality is said to be excellent. Weather conditions, including higher temperatures in the second half of August, resulted in a high concentration of natural sugars and flavours, exactly what the winemaker hopes for. Rain fall just before harvest can prove disastrous as it risks diluting the sugars.
The vast majority of Binissalem's wines are enjoyed on the island, by lucky locals and tourists. Anyone in the UK keen to sample a typical Binissalem wine, before they next head to Mallorca, can now pop to their local branch of M&S. The retailer is congratulated in the Food & Drink section of today's Telegraph for sourcing an 'excellent' Macià Batle (2010 Santa Maria del Camí, Macià Batle, Binissalem, Mallorca - £9.99).
For more information on the wines of Binissalem visit the Binissalem DO website and our Wine & Vineyards section.
