The Blossoming Viticulture of Fuerteventura: Conatvs Winery Opens Its Doors
A Historic Milestone
On the evening of May 9, 2025, at 5:30 PM, Fuerteventura will witness a momentous occasion: the official opening of Conatvs, the first winery in the region to receive the prestigious Denominación de Origen Protegida (DOP) of the Islas Canarias. This significant milestone serves not only as a triumph for local viticulture but also as an homage to the island’s rich agricultural heritage.
The Visionary Behind Conatvs
At the heart of this venture is Pedro Antonio Martín Hernández, a restaurateur turned winemaker. Originally from Lajares, La Oliva, Pedro began his journey into viticulture in the 1990s, guided by a deep-seated desire to connect with the land inherited from his parents. The turning point came after a health scare prompted his doctor to recommend a hobby to alleviate his stress. He chose to repurpose his family’s estate into a vineyard, reviving traditional grape varieties unique to Fuerteventura.
Pedro collaborated with renowned enologist Alberto González Plasencia in 2013 to craft wines that reflect the island’s character. The decision to cultivate a diverse selection of grapes demonstrates Pedro’s commitment to showcasing the richness of Canarian viticulture.
A Diverse Selection of Grapes
Pedro’s vineyard, located on the Coto del Medio estate, encompasses a variety of grape types, carefully chosen to represent the islands’ viticultural diversity. He planted Diego and Malvasía Volcánica grapes from Lanzarote alongside indigenous varieties like Hoja Moral, Listán Negro, Listán Prieto, Vijariego de El Hierro, and Listán Majorera. By focusing on a mix of old and new cultivars, Pedro aims to create wines that offer a true taste of the region’s unique terroir.
Growth and Recognition
By 2008, Pedro had established himself as the first winemaker in Fuerteventura to earn the DOP Islas Canarias designation. Today, his vineyards extend beyond Lajares, with approximately 4,000 vines on his primary estate and additional plots in El Majuelo and Betancuria, bringing his total to around 10,000 vines in varied locations across the island. The recognition of his wines with several regional and international awards underscores his dedication to quality and tradition.
Supporting Local Industry
In anticipation of the winery’s opening, the modernization of Conatvs has been facilitated by two substantial grants from the Government of the Canary Islands: approximately €13,000 from the Department of Tourism, Industry, and Commerce in 2022 and €70,000 from the Department of Economy, Industry, and Self-Employed in 2023. These financial contributions reflect the government’s commitment to promoting local agriculture and tourism, benefiting both the economy and the cultural landscape of the island.
The Care of Viticulture
Viticulture in Fuerteventura is no small feat; it demands a dedicated level of care and attention. Pedro emphasizes that successful grape growing requires “much love, much care, and constant vigilance.” The delicate nature of the vines means that farmers must be attentive, monitoring their crops closely to prevent any threats to the harvest. He warns that in just one week, an unprotected vineyard can suffer extensive damage.
Through careful stewardship, Pedro and his team aim to cultivate not just grapes but a sustainable, thriving community around winemaking in Fuerteventura.
With Conatvs now open, the island is poised to gain recognition as a burgeoning wine region, inviting locals and tourists alike to experience the unique flavors and culture of Canarian wines.
