IĠT Maltese Islands
The climate of the Maltese Islands is typically Mediterranean and is much influenced by its surrounding sea.
The soil of Malta and Gozo is calcareous, ranging from slightly to markedly alkaline. Soil types range from sandy to loam to clay. The depth of the soil and soil material is very variable but is in general rarely deeper than one meter. The underlying rock is mostly friable, porous limestone, which the roots can penetrate to access water.
The combination of soil, climate and environment (salty due to sea proximity) gives well-structured white wines and intensely coloured (depending on variety) red wines. Properly harvested and processed red wines are characterized by sweet tannins and high alcohol levels of 13% or more.
Vineyards used for production
From across Malta and Gozo
Varieties
A large number of varieties are allowed. Amongst the varieties commonly used for IĠT the following can be found: Girgentina, Chardonnay, Ġellewża, Merlot, Syrah, & Grenache.
Method of cultivation
Not specified for IĠT but predominant methods are Cordone speronato, Guyot & traditional bush method.
Maximum production allowed per hectare
In order to ensure quality, production for IĠT wines is limited to 12,500L/ha for white & rosé wines and 12,000 L/ha for red wines.
Wine typOlogies
Still wine is most commonly produced but Novello, Semi-sparking-Frizzante, Aerated Semi-sparkling and Liquer wine may also be produced and certified as IĠT.
Banderol colour
Pale green
Banderols are provided to the wineries and may be attached only on certified wines. Made of special security paper and usually attached to the wine bottles, mostly on the neck of the bottle.
LEARN MORE