Nestled near Alaró at the foot of the Tramuntana mountains, Solu is more than just a farm — it’s a dream turned reality. This small regenerative farm and winery, complete with vineyards, a vibrant orange grove, and a thriving apiary, was born from the vision of chef Giuliano and his wife Larisa. Two years ago, they, along with their two children and a duck, took a leap of faith, settling on a forgotten piece of land with a dilapidated house and 3.2 hectares of neglected earth.
What began as a journey to restore an old farm has blossomed into a flourishing oasis. The kitchen that hadn’t seen a cooked meal in half a century now serves up delicious garden lunches, featuring vegetables grown with care in their bio-intensive garden. Their organic wines, crafted with the same dedication, carry whimsical names like “¡NO PatakiNO!,” inspired by a dressing down given to a mischievous puppy they found among the vines. And Larisa’s love for flowers has transformed the farm into a haven for bees, with her rose, sunflower, and dahlia bouquets adding beauty to the family’s surroundings.
Solu is built on principles of harmony with nature, guided by the expertise of winemaker Javi Cortes. Their wine, free of added sulfites, is a testament to regenerative agriculture and biodynamic practices. Javi brings a wealth of experience from vineyards across France, New Zealand, South Africa, and Turkey, applying techniques that respect the land and enrich the wine’s character.
The Solu team, united by a shared passion for sustainable living, has revived abandoned vineyards and planted new vines that will bear fruit in a few years. Their portfolio includes the light, sparkling red BUENAVENTURA, made from grapes in a restored 70-year-old vineyard in Felanitx, and POULET RÔTI, a wine born from a crop nearly decimated by wild Mallorcan chickens — proof that nothing can dim this happy team’s spirits.
If you’re looking to taste the Solu life, you can join them for cooking classes, wine tastings, or farm tours, and experience firsthand the joy and fulfillment of living in harmony with the earth.
Text by Stephan Reiryan