In the picturesque town of Tijarafe on the northwest coast of La Palma, Cervezas Isla Verde is located, it is more than just a brewery, it’s a celebration of tradition, innovation, and sustainability. Canary Green recently had the pleasure of visiting this eco-conscious microbrewery, discovering its history, commitment to the environment, and the unique flavors it brings to craft beer enthusiasts.
A Passion Turned Into Reality
The story of Isla Verde began in 2006 when Polish entrepreneur Jolanta Klimaszewska and Belgian brewer Gino de Reuwe landed on La Palma. Drawn by the island’s serene environment and focus on health and wellbeing, they decided to settle in Tijarafe, a town known for its stunning landscapes and authentic rural charm.
While the couple had already dabbled in brewing, it wasn’t until 2009 that their passion became a professional endeavor. By 2010, their first product, Danza del Diablo, was launched, marking the start of an exciting journey. This flagship beer, inspired by local traditions, set the tone for what Isla Verde aimed to achieve—craft beers that reflected the soul of La Palma.
Crafting Excellence
The brewery is housed in what was once the Montecarlo celebration hall in the El Jesús neighborhood. This location now buzzes with creativity and technology, combining manual brewing techniques with advanced environmental systems to create premium craft beers. The process involves six weeks of patient brewing, leveraging local resources like soft mountain water and Belgian malts, while embracing top fermentation methods.
Isla Verde’s beers stand out not only for their flavor but also for their health benefits. By replacing filtering and pasteurization with double fermentation, the beers retain a natural freshness and are packed with vitamins and nutrients.
Sustainability at Its Core
Cervezas Isla Verde has committed to preserving La Palma’s pristine environment. In 2017, the brewery adopted a 100% renewable energy model, supported by solar collectors, photovoltaic panels, and bio-diesel from recycled vegetable oils. These efforts have dramatically reduced their carbon footprint, preventing over 25,000 kilograms of CO2 emissions annually.
Their commitment to sustainability extends beyond brewing. By repurposing spent malt (bagasse) as livestock feed and collaborating with local farmers, they ensure minimal waste and maximum community impact.
A Culinary Experience to Savor
The brewery’s bar-restaurant offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy freshly brewed beers paired with delicious local cuisine. With three terraces overlooking the ocean, guests can sip on a chilled glass of Isla Verde beer while soaking in breathtaking sunsets—a truly unforgettable experience.
Each beer brewed here captures the essence of La Palma, from its natural ingredients to the stories behind its creation. Visitors can take home these flavors in bottles or boxes, ensuring the magic of Isla Verde extends beyond the island.
Looking to the Future
Isla Verde continues to innovate. In 2018, the brewery expanded its operations to introduce new and exciting beer varieties, further enhancing their energy efficiency and production methods. This ongoing evolution keeps them at the forefront of La Palma’s craft beer scene, delighting locals and visitors alike.
Experience the harmonious blend of tradition, technology, and sustainability that makes Isla Verde a beacon of innovation on La Palma. With Canary Green’s commitment to promoting eco-friendly tourism, Isla Verde serves as a shining example of how businesses can thrive while respecting the environment and supporting their local community.
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