Marsovin's Gozo vineyard to produce 'quality wine'

Marsovin's Ramla l-Hamra Vineyard was inaugurated in Gozo on Thursday. The vineyard, growing noble French white grapes, will produce Chardonnay and Pinot Bianco wines.

The 35-tumulo vineyard is situated on a plot of land previously owned by the Cassar family, Marsovin chairman Tony Cassar said.

The Ramla l-Hamra Vineyard boasts an ideal location for the growing of white grapes to be used for the production of white wine.

"These grapes require a cool climate. This is very delicate process," Mr Cassar stressed.

"The sea, in close proximity to the vineyard, serves to cool the vines in the drier months. Located in a valley, the vineyard is in large part shielded from the sun. These are essential factors for the production of white grapes used for Chardonnay wine. All these factors having been taken into account, these vines will produce excellent wine," Mr Cassar said with confidence.

Speaking to The Sunday Times, Mr Cassar said: "It takes time for the vines to get accustomed to the land and climate. We constantly need to predict what the particular needs of the consumer will be. We aim to produce an improved product. The wine, to be on the market in a couple of years' time, will be quality wine."

Through the project, Marsovin is reviving Gozitan viticulture and training Gozitan personnel.

The investment is in conjunction with 'The Island of Gozo Countryside Walks' project launched a few weeks ago by the Gozo Ministry in collaboration with the Tourism Ministry. The location of the vineyard is a landmark for the project and will also contribute to Gozitan agro-tourism.

The vineyard is the fifth estate owned by Marsovin with its vineyards totalling over 200 tumoli - an overall investment of Lm600,000.

Speaking at the inauguration, Gozo Minister Giovanna Debono recalled how Gozitan families used to produce their own wine.

"But the wine being produced here can be easily compared to any good foreign wine," Minister Debono said.

"Agriculture in Gozo needs to be strengthened to ensure that the produce meets the needs and demands of the consumer. After all, at the end of the day, a good glass of wine is enjoyed by everyone," she added.

Marsovin is currently collaborating with farmers in Malta and Gozo for the planting of new vineyards and is offering advice on what vines to be planted and on the managing of a vineyard.