1. Merdiana Wine Estate, Malta

Meridiana Wine Estate, tucked at the base of the ancient capital of Mdina, has produced a string of award-winning wines, such as the red full-bodied Nexus and the spritely Isis. The winery has achieved praise from international stalwarts such as Jamie Oliver, who called Maltese wine “blessed by ancient Gods” – and this viticulture haven, overlooked by the fortifications of history, seems to be proof! This place has achieved almost cult status, with a visit by Meghan Markle also making the books!

2. Delicata Winery, Malta & Gozo

The marriage of the modern and the traditional really comes into its own here, at the Delicata Winery, which features a state-of-the-art fermentation hall, which uses the latest oenological technology, and 17th-century wine cellars.  The winery itself is located near the Grand Harbour, though land in both Malta and Gozo is used for cultivation. The Delicata family have been running this place for more than a century, and their wines – such as the Grand Vin de Hauteville and the Medina – have been staples on many Maltese dining table. 

3. Marsovin: Marnisi Estate & Marsovin Ramla Valley Estate, Malta & Gozo

Marsovin is another household name, which established itself as the general populace experienced a growing taste for the various wines this small spot in the sun could produce. They own a staggering five estates – the most well-known being the Marnisi and Ramla Valley Estate. Viticulture enthusiasts will be stunned by the terraced vineyards as well as talks and tastings the company organises. And why shouldn’t they? These guys have been in the business for almost a century, so you’re in well-trained hands! 

4. Ta’ Mena Estate, Gozo

One of the newer options, Ta’ Mena Estate has the feel of a family home, whose door is thrown open and guests from around the world welcomed with good wine, olive oil and beautiful Maltese staples such as honey. After all, you need to line your stomach to reach out for the bottle for that second (or third) time, right? Farming is high on the agenda here, and the salt-of-the-earth discussions reveal a true passion for the bounty produced on these islands. 

5. Tal-Massar Winery, Gozo

Moving once again to the bucolic island of Gozo, Tal-Massar Winery may not be as well known as its bigger cousins, but it punches way above its weight. It calls itself a ‘boutique winery’ and the devil is, indeed, in the detail here: personalised tours reveal much about the grapes, the cultivation process and the way the weather impacts the land.