Gozo Wine Festival 🍷 Ramla Estate
Welcome to the bacchanalian world of the Marsovin Wine Festival, held annually at the picturesque Ramla Estate in Gozo.
Nestled in the heart of the island, this festival is a celebration of fine wine, local culture, and the breathtaking beauty of the Maltese islands.
Join us as we explore the magic of this unique event, where every sip of wine tells a story and every moment is a memory in the making.
Highlights
- Getting to Gozo
- The Ramla Estate Vineyard
- A Celebration of Marsovin Wines
- Music Under the Stars
- Tips for a Chilled Experience
- Gozo – Beyond the Wine Festival
- Our Villa Rental in Gozo
- All Hotel Options in Gozo
- Hotel Deals in Malta
- Malta Clifftop Camping
- Things We Take to the Beach
Getting to Gozo
Getting to Gozo from Malta is quite straightforward! Here are your main options:
- Gozo Channel Ferry: This is the most common way to get to Gozo. The ferry departs from Ċirkewwa in Malta and arrives at Mġarr Harbour in Gozo. The trip takes about 20-25 minutes and runs frequently throughout the day. You can take your car on the ferry or travel as a foot passenger.
- Gozo Fast Ferry: If you’re in a hurry, you can take the fast ferry from Valletta to Gozo. This service is for foot passengers only and takes around 45 minutes.
- Public Transport: To get to the Ċirkewwa ferry terminal, you can use Malta’s public buses. Routes 41, 42, 101, 221, 222, X1, and X1A all go to Ċirkewwa.
- Taxi or Shuttle: For a more direct route, you can take a taxi or a shuttle service from anywhere in Malta to the Ċirkewwa ferry terminal.
Once you arrive in Gozo, you can explore the island by renting a car, taking a bus, or even joining a guided tour.
Arriving in Gozo by ferry
Ramla Estate: A Vineyard Paradise
Ramla Estate, located in the serene Ramla Valley, is the perfect setting for the Marsovin Wine Festival. As we arrived in the early evening, we were greeted by the lush vineyards that stretch across 4.2 hectares, exclusively planted with Chardonnay vines.
The Ramla Estate, Gozo
The estate’s unique microclimate, protected by surrounding hills and refreshed by sea breezes, creates the ideal conditions for producing high-quality wines. The terraced vineyards and clay sandy loam soils contribute to the distinctive flavors of the wines we were about to enjoy.
A Celebration of Marsovin Wines
The Marsovin Wine Festival is a tribute to the rich viticultural heritage of Gozo. Marsovin, a renowned Maltese winery, showcases its finest selections, including the flagship Antonin Blanc, made from grapes grown right here at Ramla Estate.
Gozo’s Marsovin Wine Festival
As you wander through the festival, you have the opportunity to taste a variety of premium wines, each with its unique character and story. From the crisp and refreshing Blanc de Cheval to the elegant Antonin Blanc Riżerva, every glass is a testament to Marsovin’s dedication to excellence.
Pairing Wine with Local Flavors
No wine festival is complete without an array of delectable dishes to complement the wines. At the Marsovin Wine Festival, we indulged in a culinary journey that highlights the best of Maltese and international cuisine.
Antonin Under the Stars menu
The festival includes an ongoing waiter service throughout the evening, offering both hot and cold dishes including tartlets, arancini, gnocchi, risotto, cannoli and many more types of finger food.
All dishes are prepared by the renowned Ta’ Frenċ restaurant. Each dish is expertly paired with Marsovin’s wines, creating a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds.
Music & Entertainment Under the Stars
As the sun sets over Ramla Estate, the festival comes alive with music and entertainment. We were serenaded by the soothing sounds of jazz and swing, performed by talented local artists.
Jazz musical entertainment
The combination of great music, delicious wine, and the company of fellow wine enthusiasts creates an atmosphere of joy and celebration. Wandering under the starlit sky, we really felt the magic of the Marsovin wne festival.
Tips for a Memorable Experience
To make the most of your visit to the wine festival, we recommend planning ahead. Here are some tips to ensure an unforgettable experience:
- Book accommodation early: Ramla Estate and the surrounding areas can fill up quickly during the festival, so secure your lodging well in advance.
- Get to the venue early: Seating is limited, so you need to arrive early to claim your space.
- Stay hydrated: With so much wine to enjoy, it’s important to stay hydrated. Take breaks between tastings, and don’t be afraid to ask for plain water.
- Explore the local cuisine: Don’t miss the opportunity to try the delicious finger food offerings at the festival. Pairing wine with local dishes enhances the experience.
- Enjoy responsibly: Plan your transportation in advance and consider using public transport or arranging a designated driver.
By following these tips, you’ll ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to the Gozo wine festival.
Exploring Gozo: Beyond the Wine Festival
While the wine festival was the highlight of our visit, the island of Gozo has much more to offer. You should definitely take the opportunity to explore the island’s stunning landscapes, historic sites, and charming villages.
From the Azure Window and the Ġgantija Temples to the bustling markets of Victoria, Gozo is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.
Where to Stay in Gozo?
We booked a traditional pool villa for our 2-day break in Gozo. This included a good kitchen and a stone barbecue which we used on our first night.
However, like many rental villas in Gozo, you need to pay extra if you want to use the air conditioners (… and you will!). They use an antiquated coin system to activate the air conditioners, so you’ll need plenty of Euro coins.
It’s a pity they don’t use this extra income to keep their properties well maintained.
This 3-bedroom villa cost around €550 for 2 nights, and could just about accommodate our group of 8 people.
What about the Beaches?
If you’re looking to cool off in the sea, you can’t do much better than Mgarr Ix-Xini beach – a secluded paradise that offers tranquility and stunning natural beauty. This small, pebbly beach is set within a narrow gorge, surrounded by steep cliffs and clear, azure waters, making it a perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Unlike the more crowded beaches, Mgarr Ix-Xini remains a hidden gem, providing a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. The crystal-clear waters are teeming with marine life, making it an ideal location for snorkeling and underwater photography.
Mgarr Ix-Xini – Gozo
The beach is overlooked by the Mgarr Ix-Xini Tower, a watchtower built in 1661 by the Knights of Malta to guard the bay. The surrounding cliffs and natural valley create a breathtaking backdrop, perfect for hiking and exploring.
The beach is accessible by car or a scenic (if arduous) hike from the ferry terminal. The journey itself offers stunning views of the Gozo countryside. The best time to visit is early morning to avoid the midday sun and enjoy the serene environment.
For any film enthusiasts, this bay was the principal location for filming of the Brad Pitt/Angelina Jolie movie By the Sea.
Mgarr Ix-Xini is a must-visit for anyone exploring Gozo. Its serene atmosphere, rich history, and natural beauty make it a perfect spot for a relaxing day by the sea.
I’m getting notes of … elderberry!
The Gozo Marsovin Wine Festival at Ramla Estate is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of the island’s culture, community, and passion for wine. As you raise your glasses and toast to the beauty of Gozo, you are reminded of the magic that happens when people come together to celebrate life’s simple pleasures.
Don’t forget your complimentary glass!
Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, the Gozo Marsovin Wine Festival offers an experience that is both enriching and unforgettable.
Join us at Ramla Estate next August and discover the charm and flavor of Gozo. Cheers!
If you enjoyed the Gozo Wine Festival, take a look at our Tropical Travel Plans. You may also like:
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