Let’s Start Again: Reviving the Soil with Cover Cropping at Can Gelat
At Can Gelat, our ecological vineyard nestled in the scenic hills of Mallorca, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. As we enjoyed the mild November weather, preparations for the 2025 harvest have already begun, starting with our most precious resource; the soil.
Protecting the Essence of Terroir
For us, terroir is not an abstract concept. It is the foundation of our elegant wines. To ensure the authenticity and exceptional quality of our wines, we use the ancient agricultural technique of cover cropping—a vital step in regenerating and protecting the soil every year.
What is Cover Cropping?
Cover cropping involves planting specific crops between the vines that grow through winter and are mowed and buried in the spring. This process brings life back to the soil by:
- Enriching soil nutrients with organic matter
- Improving soil fertility and structure, enhancing its water retention capacity
- Encouraging the growth of beneficial organisms like earthworms and microorganisms
Combatting Soil Erosion on Mallorca’s Hillsides
Our hilly terrain at Can Gelat makes soil erosion a real challenge, especially during the rare but heavy autumn rains typical of Mallorca’s climate. Without proper management, water runoff can wash away valuable soil and nutrients.
With cover cropping, we protect the soil by planting crops that develop deep root systems, which stabilise the ground and reduce erosion. These roots provide structure to the soil, making it more resilient and fertile.
Our Carefully Selected Seed Mix
To maximise the benefits of cover cropping, we sow a mix of three plant varieties that work in harmony with the environment:
- Vetch (Vicia sativa)
- Nitrogen fixer: Converts atmospheric nitrogen into organic nitrogen, enriching the soil when the plant is buried.
- Barley (Hordeum vulgare)
- Improves porosity: Its branched root system aerates the soil, enhancing oxygen levels for healthy root growth.
- Water retention: Vital for conserving water in Mallorca’s warm, dry climate.
- White Mustard (Sinapis alba)
- Natural pest control: Acts as a soil disinfectant, combating harmful nematodes that damage vine roots.
- Bright yellow flowers: A striking visual contrast that boosts biodiversity.
Spring: A Celebration of Life and Biodiversity
When spring arrives, the vineyard transforms into a colourful paradise. Vibrant purple, yellow, and green hues create a stunning mosaic, attracting bees and other pollinators that play a crucial role in our ecosystem. This biodiversity not only supports healthy vines but also produces the delicious honey we love.
Experience the Can Gelat Difference
We invite you to visit Can Gelat this spring. Witness the beauty of our sustainable practices, explore our vibrant vineyard, and taste our terroir-driven wines, which are a direct reflection of the harmony between nature and craftsmanship.
Contact us at info@cangelat.com to book tastings, tours and more.
Join us on our journey of ecological winemaking and experience the unique flavors of Mallorca. Explore, taste, and connect with the terroir of Can Gelat—where every bottle tells a story of sustainable elegance.
Salut!