It is no secret that Aruba is one of the smallest territories in the Lesser Antilles. Its compact size might suggest that every inch has been explored, from the sculptural Fofoti trees on Eagle Beach to the ancient cave drawings at the Ayo Rock Formation. Yet, those who take the time to look beyond Oranjestad’s pastel-colored facades will find exceptional treasures across this 20-mile-long, 6-mile-wide Caribbean paradise. One of them is its unexpected (band thriving!) winemaking scene.
A perfect beach day pairs perfectly with a refreshing lemonade, a pint of Balashi beer, and a generous glass of fiery mangoardiente. But when the sun sets and the mood shifts to elegance, other drinks take center stage. As you might have guessed, wine in Aruba plays a key role in nighttime celebrations, much like in many other places. While familiar labels will do, the best way to savor the island’s essence is by sipping its local alternatives. In this article, we dive deep into the how, when, and where of these unique vintages.
Must-try alcoholic drinks in Aruba
The art of desert viticulture
Alto Vista Winery tours include wine and rum tastings. Credit: Anna Bratiychuk/Unsplash
Thanks to its laid-back lifestyle, Aruba has earned a reputation as a hotspot – both literally and figuratively! From a business and agricultural standpoint, this trait may seem unfavorable for growing wine grapes. However, if you have been keeping up with our blog, you know the average annual temperature hovers around 83 degrees. Beyond benefiting its well-established tourism industry, companies like Alto Vista have put this warm, delightful climate to good use.
Alto Vista Winery grows and processes grapes on its own land, offering a contrast to the white sand landscapes and aquatic adventures elsewhere in this destination. The result is a small yet intriguing catalog of white, red, and rosé varieties. According to their website, their ability to adapt to the unique characteristics of the soil and desertic conditions has given its products distinct flavors and aromas.
For those seeking a unique experience, wine in Aruba should be at the top of the list. Alto Vista’s guided tours are a great place to start. In two hours, small groups of up to 13 people explore the farm and vineyard, learning about the winemaking process. As expected, the event, which costs $43 per person, culminates in the tasting room, where guests can enjoy a glass of wine paired with a charcuterie and cheese board. They may also have the chance to watch the sunset while sipping on the house’s own rum brand. If this sounds up your alley, you can book a spot in advance here. Do not forget to write down all the details!
- Directions: Alto Vista Winery & Distillery, Alto Vista ZN, Oranjestad, Aruba.
- Hours: Monday to Saturday, from 8:30 am to 12:00 pm and 1:30 pm to 5:00 pm.
- Contact information: Alto Vista Winery & Distillery’s website
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Uncorking Aruba: The best experiences for wine-lovers
In Aruba, not only can you surf, sunbathe, and explore the past in the capital’s museums, but also try out both local and international wine brands. Credit: Rodrigo Abreu/Unsplash
We have already told you: piña coladas and cocojitos are not the only drinks locals are fond of. In fact, even magazines like Social have recognized the growing popularity of wine in Aruba. So, to save you hours of scrolling for the perfect plan, we have curated a list of events and places were quality beverages and cocktails are the norm:
- Food festivals: Do not miss out on these events; they provide a fantastic chance to sample a wide variety of gastronomic delicacies. The Autentico Aruba Culinary Festival, for instance, will take place next October.
- The Wine Room: Located in the capital city, this club is run by Monrick Croes, “Aruba’s Sommelier of the Year 2019”. It offers wine tastings, as well as private dinners, à la carte options, and even training sessions.
- Wine On Down The Road tour: Prefer something more on the go? On this tour, you will have a great time, meet like-minded people, and enjoy a sommelier’s recommendations. What could be better than that?
- Ocean Z Aruba Restaurant: We cannot forget to mention our own restaurant, rated by our guests as one of the best in Noord. Here, we know that the Caribbean heat calls for something refreshing, so why not try our cucumber martini after that glass of wine? If drinks are not enough for you, check out our menu, which ranges from finger-licking risottos to seafood pasta. To make a reservation, click the button below.
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