Ferrer de Muntpalau, the origin of modern viticulture in Menorca

To speak of Ferrer de Muntpalau is to speak of the beginnings of modern viticulture in Menorca. The project dates back to the mid-1980s, at a time when locally produced wine was not yet commercially available on the island. Driven by passion and a deep connection to the land, Crispín Mariano—linked to the family behind the restaurant Ca n’Aguedet in Es Mercadal—turned his attention to the vines growing in a family orchard. That initial spark led, a few years later, to the first bottles that would mark a turning point for Menorcan wine.

The name Ferrer de Muntpalau is no coincidence. It pays tribute to a 14th-century knight connected to the north coast of Menorca and symbolises the close relationship between wine, history and place. Earlier, in 1985, Vi d’en Bennàssar had already been released, considered the first bottled wine on the island, and establishing a unique tradition of linking each wine to a Menorcan artist through its label.

Rather than pursuing large-scale production, Ferrer de Muntpalau has grown with a philosophy centred on quality, cultural preservation and respect for tradition and the environment. This vision was instrumental in the creation, in 1999, of the Vi de la Terra Illa de Menorca designation, a key milestone in the recognition of local wine.

Today, Ferrer de Muntpalau wines remain a living expression of Menorca’s history, art and identity. Guided tours offer the chance to discover this pioneering legacy and taste wines that are part of the island’s winemaking memory.

Technical details

Winery: Ferrer de Muntpalau – Bodegas Menorquinas
Address: Carrer de Tramuntana, 8A
Town: Es Mercadal (07740), Menorca
Project start: 1985
First Ferrer de Muntpalau bottle: 1989
Vi de la Terra Illa de Menorca registration: 1999

Wines: Ferrer de Muntpalau and blended wines
Grape varieties: Merlot, Muscat, Malvasia, Cabernet Sauvignon

Visits phone: +34 618 25 32 53
Guided tours: advance booking required. An experience focused on the history, culture, and origins of Menorcan wine.