Costa Calida
• Issue No. 2021 • 28 M - 3 A 2024
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Underwater wine IMAGINE wines ageing not in traditional cellars but beneath the sea’s surface. In Aguilas, Murcia, Bodegas Verónica pioneers this unique process, maturing wines at a depth of 40 metres below the sea, where darkness and marine silence contribute to their transformation. Spearheaded by entrepreneur Pedro Martínez Cáceres, this venture requires extensive knowledge of both winemaking and marine environments. Over a decade of experimentation has refined the process, with wines of various origins and varieties undergoing underwater ageing, resulting in a reduction of acidity, moderation of alcohol sensation, and enhanced tannin definition. Despite challenges
Image: Facebook/ ElixSea Wines
Discover the depths of flavour.
like preventing seawater contamination and adapting to marine conditions, the venture has garnered success, attracting partners and expanding operations to Cartagena. The environmental impact is carefully considered, with the underwater cellars becoming habitats for diverse marine life, contributing positively to the ecosystem. Similar ventures exist globally, targeting luxury markets and tourism. In essence, underwater winemaking represents a blend of innovation, luxury, and environmental responsibility. As the industry explores new frontiers, the underwater wine experience offers an interesting journey for connoisseurs.
Image: Productos Artesanos El Turro, Abarán
Spreading joy
IN the hamlet of Santa Cruz in Murcia, the sweet factory ‘Jarca’ is preparing for Semana Santa (Easter Week) as they gear up to distribute their Easter sweets throughout Spain. This family business established over 60 years ago by 90-year-old Dionisio Jara is now run by his son Anton. Their most popular product is the Nazarenes, candy shaped like the hooded worshippers involved in the Easter processions in Spain. They are on a stick and so are popular with the children attending the processions. Across Murcia in another town called Abaran another family-run
Celebrating Murcian tradition.
sweet factory called El Turro is preparing Easter sweets. Their spe-
cialty is a toasted caramel with hazelnut. Both businesses hi-
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ghlight the emotional value attached to their sweets, sweets that symbolise the essence of Murcian Easter celebrations. The carefully crafted candies represent a sense of heritage and identity. Despite economic challenges created by the pandemic, these artisans remain dedicated to their craft, aiming to spread joy and keep tradition alive during Easter in Murcia and beyond.
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Easter spirit
Image: Cartagena Town Hall
Exploring the rich traditions of Semana Santa.
SEMANA SANTA or Holy Week is a deeply cherished tradition throughout Spain with each region marking the occasion with its unique customs and rituals. Cartagena, a city steeped in history, stands out during Easter as the first procession in Spain takes place in Cartagena. National media outlets put the spotlight on Cartagena as the Semana Santa traditions kicked off on the crowded streets in the centre of the historical city on March 23. Throughout Holy Week, Spain’s cities and towns come alive with processions that reflect the profound religious significance of the occasion. On Holy Thursday the silent procession takes place, probably the most solemn of all the processions. Good Friday, perhaps the most sombre day of Semana Santa, is marked by processions depicting the Passion and death of Christ, often accompanied by mournful music and prayers. On Holy Saturday the procession of the True Cross takes place and Easter week wraps up with a more joyful procession on Easter Sunday with the procession of the Resurrection. Throughout the Region of Murcia, each town will organise its own processions and festivities. Many flock to Murcia City and Lorca also draws huge crowds. Each town will also create a programme of events and activities suitable for all the family. Check out your town hall’s social media pages for details.
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