Son Bunyola Revives Historic Wine Production with Malvasia de Banyalbufar

Son Bunyola Estate Reintroduces Wine Production

The historic Son Bunyola estate, nestled in Banyalbufar, Mallorca, is once again producing wine after more than a century of dormancy. The revival centers on the cultivation and production of wine from the Malvasia de Banyalbufar grape, a local variety with deep historical roots in the region. The first records of viticultural activity at Son Bunyola date back to 1275, indicating a long-standing tradition that was tragically interrupted by the phylloxera plague in 1891, a pest that decimated vineyards across Europe.

The reintroduction of winemaking at Son Bunyola is a testament to significant research and investment. The successful relaunch was celebrated on April 17th of this year, marking a new chapter for the estate and its contribution to Mallorca’s wine heritage.

The Man Behind the Revival

The restoration of wine production at Son Bunyola owes much to the dedication and expertise of university researcher Pedro Balda. Balda’s connection with the Malvasia de Banyalbufar grape began in 2016 when he joined the Balearic Physiology Group at the University of the Balearic Islands. This research team, led by Professor Hipólito Medrano, had previously succeeded in recovering the grape variety in 2011.

Balda’s initial research focused on the health status of various local Mallorcan grape varieties, including Vinater (white and black), Malvasia de Banyalbufar, Valent (white and black), Mamella de vaca, Calop (black, white, and red), and Sabater. During this study, he developed a particular fascination with the Malvasia de Banyalbufar.

Further Contributions to Mallorcan Viticulture

Balda’s involvement in the Mallorcan wine scene extends beyond Son Bunyola. In 2019, he collaborated with the Can Axartell winery in Pollença, where he played a key role in redefining their wine ‘Corum,’ which prominently features the Malvasia Tramuntana Mallorquina. Currently, Balda’s collaborations on the island include work with Nacra winery, established in 2016 by Hipólito Medrano, which also highlights rescued grape varieties.

Vision for Son Bunyola

At Son Bunyola, the initiative to re-establish viticulture was driven by Vincent Padioleau, the director of the hotel, with the full endorsement of the estate’s owner, Richard Branson. Their shared vision was to bring winemaking back to this emblematic estate.

Vineyard Expansion

The vineyard restoration project at Son Bunyola began in 2022 with the planting of 0.5 hectares of vines. This was followed by an expansion to 1.8 hectares in 2023. Further plantings occurred in 2025 with 0.15 hectares, and an additional 0.6 hectares were added in 2026, bringing the total vineyard area to three hectares.

The 2025 Vintage

The fruits of this labor are evident in the 2025 white wine vintage. Produced from 2,500 kilograms of Malvasia de Banyalbufar grapes, this wine represents the successful restoration of Son Bunyola’s former viticultural splendor. The article promises further details on this development in the following week.

Datos clave
| Aspecto | Detalle |
|—|—|
| Viñedo | Son Bunyola, Banyalbufar, Mallorca |
| Variedad de Uva | Malvasia de Banyalbufar |
| Inicio de Plantación | 2022 |
| Área Total de Viñedo | 3 hectáreas |
| Añada del Primer Vino | 2025 |
| Investigador Clave | Pedro Balda |

This development is significant for Football Español readers as it highlights the revival of a historic wine tradition on Mallorca, a region often associated with tourism but also possessing a rich agricultural heritage. The focus on a unique local grape variety like Malvasia de Banyalbufar underscores the island’s commitment to preserving its distinct oenological identity. For fans of Spanish football, this story connects to the broader cultural landscape of Spain, showcasing a resurgence of traditional practices alongside modern innovation.

Fuente: diariodemallorca.es https://www.diariodemallorca.es/cultura/2026/05/31/vi-celler-son-bunyola-2025-130843804.html

Datos clave