My wife and I joined friends on a cruise of Portugal’s Madeira and Spain’s Canary Islands. Although we didn’t expect to find vineyards on the Canary Islands, we were surprised.

The islands were created by volcanic eruptions that have been active as recently as last year. Particularly noteworthy is the island of Lanzarote which had a great eruption in 1730. It last six years and caused major changes to the terroir.

Volcanic soil is very good for vineyards any where in the world, but the soil is particularly instrumental on this island. The landscape is so black it’s hard to imagine anything growing here. The vines are planted in individual depressions that are semi-encircled by stacked rock. This unusual configuration shields the vines from the cool winds. Obviously, the yield is low. To compete, winemakers must focus on quality.

Among the wines produced here is malvasia, Listan Negro, Listan Prieto.

Besides Lanzarote, the lsland of Tenerife and La Palma are also known for its vineyards. Here Malvasia Aromatica and Albillo Criollo is the primary grape.

I’m gathering some of these wines in the next few weeks and will report on what I find.