Bodegas El Grifo, the oldest winery in the Canary Islands, located in San Bartolomé, Lanzarote, has announced the acquisition of Caserío de Mozaga, a nearby historic hotel. This move coincides with the winery's celebration of its 250th anniversary.
Fermín Otamendi, co-owner of El Grifo alongside his brother Juan José, explained the significance of this purchase in expanding their wine tourism offerings.
“The acquisition of Caserío de Mozaga is a key step in the evolution of El Grifo as an ‘enotourism’ (wine tourism) destination,” he said. The winery already offers wine tastings and guided tours, where visitors can explore the vineyards, the ancient wine press, modern facilities, and a library inaugurated by the poet José Hierro, which has also hosted Nobel Prize-winning author José Saramago.
Caserío de Mozaga, built in the late 18th century and listed as a Historical Heritage site of Lanzarote, was converted into a rural hotel in 1998. The property features 12 rooms, including three suites, and a restaurant. The acquisition also holds sentimental value for the Otamendi family, as Fermín and Juan José revealed: "It was the house where our mother spent her childhood summers, so it holds great emotional significance and memories for us."
This expansion marks a new chapter for Bodegas El Grifo, blending its rich winemaking heritage with the growing demand for experiential tourism on the island.
