Perhaps Mallorca isn’t the first place you think of when you think of excellent wines – (parties and pearly beaches feel more appropriate for the gorgeous Spanish island).
Looking back to history, Mallorcan wines were largely lauded. Pliny the Elder was a huge fan of Mallocan wines, and the island became the darling of the Roman wine scene, with exports headed to the capital at a speedy clip.
Looking at the terroir of the island, it’s pretty perfect. There are tall mountains broken up by flat plains. The sun beats down, but the heat is balanced out by salty ocean breezes that sweep over the island.
Perhaps that’s why musician and Sonar Music Festival founder Sergio Caballero settled for Mallorca to open up 4 Kilos winery in 2006. He founded it alongside Francesc Grimalty, an already revered winemaker behind Anima Negra Cellar in Mallorca. The duo focus on grapes that belong on Mallorca – thing manto negra and callet – alongside classics like Cabernet, Sauvignon, French Fogoneu, Merlot, and Monastrell.
Their flagship wine is consistently exceptional, made with Callet from 20 to 45 year old fermented in both stainless steel and French oak. Clear ruby in color with a light touch of acidity and a wonderful sea-influenced salinity that follows through each sip. Wild plum and raspberry on the palate, with a moody minerality on the finish.
Despite the heat, this red is pressed quickly to remain wildly fresh and light on its feet. Think the finesse of an old world pinot noir, but with fine tannins that lengthen the finish and allow for a wider world of pairing options. $80
Kate Dingwall is a WSET-trained sommelier and seasoned spirits writer. Her work has appeared in Wine Enthusiast, Eater, Forbes.com, and Food & Wine, and she pours wine at one of Canada’s top restaurants.
