Menorca, located off the coast of Spain, offers a diverse and delicious food and drink scene influenced by its history and geography. Some notable culinary highlights include Xoriguer Mahon Gin, a traditional Menorcan spirit made from distilled wine as a base, giving it a unique flavor profile. It is commonly enjoyed in G&Ts or mixed with lemonade for a refreshing summer drink. Menorca has a growing wine industry, producing robust reds like Cabernet, Merlot, and Tempranillo, as well as whites from Chardonnay and Muscat grapes. Local wines are often labeled under the Isla de Menorca VT appellation.
Menorcan cheese, particularly Mahón, is renowned for its distinct taste due to the influence of salty sea breezes on the grazing cows. Young Mahón is mild and creamy, while aged versions become harder and more robust. Fresh seafood plays a significant role in Menorcan cuisine, with dishes like caldereta de langosta (lobster stew) showcasing the island's maritime heritage. Traditional sweets like flaó, a cheesecake-like dessert, and ensaimadas, a type of bun filled with sweet or savory ingredients, offer visitors a taste of local culinary traditions.
Menorca's gastronomy reflects its rich cultural heritage and agricultural resources, offering a delightful array of dishes and drinks to explore during your visit.