What is ElixSea?
ElixSea is where the ocean’s mystery meets the art of winemaking. Founded by Mariona Alabau and Gergő Borbély, this unique project crafts wines inspired by adventure, marine exploration, and deep-rooted tradition. It’s not just about making wine—it’s about creating an experience that connects you to the sea, all while supporting marine conservation efforts. Imagine sipping a glass of wine that’s been nurtured beneath the waves, surrounded by the silent beauty of the ocean. That’s ElixSea.
The Main Benefit: A Wine Like No Other
What makes ElixSea’s wines truly special? It’s all about the underwater environment. Here are some key facts:
- Wine matures faster underwater due to unique conditions like high pressure and constant temperatures.
- The deep silence and absence of light and noise create a peaceful aging process.
- Currents and tides, influenced by the Moon, add a dynamic element to the wine’s evolution.
- The underwater winery doubles as an artificial reef, fostering marine biodiversity.
- It serves as a platform for research and innovation in sustainable winemaking.
The Underwater Winery: More Than Just a Vineyard
ElixSea’s underwater winery isn’t your typical cellar. It’s a living, breathing ecosystem beneath the waves. This artificial reef nurtures a variety of marine species, turning the winery into a vibrant habitat. The project embraces sustainability and ecosystem conservation, aiming to protect this new underwater world. It’s a beautiful blend of science, nature, and craftsmanship that pushes the boundaries of traditional winemaking.
Meet Mariona Alabau: The Ocean Enthusiast
Mariona’s story is as inspiring as the wines she helps create. Born in the mountains of the Pyrenees, her heart was captured by the Mediterranean Sea early on. With a degree in environmental science and a Master of Biodiversity, she’s worked across five continents in conservation and diving roles. Her passion for the blue world fuels ElixSea’s mission to blend ocean conservation with winemaking innovation.
Meet Gergő Borbély: The Wine Adventurer
Gergő grew up surrounded by his family’s Hungarian winery, learning the ropes from harvest to barrel cleaning. After studying wines and spirits, adventure called him to Southeast Asia, where diving opened up a whole new world. It was underwater exploration that led him to meet Mariona and inspired the creation of ElixSea. Combining his lifelong love of wine with the thrill of the ocean, Gergő brings a unique perspective to this extraordinary project.
ElixSea’s Impact on Sustainable Development Goals
- SDG 14: Life Below Water – Protecting marine ecosystems through the artificial reef winery.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Innovating sustainable winemaking practices.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – Promoting awareness of ocean health and conservation.
- SDG 15: Life on Land – Supporting biodiversity both underwater and onshore.
In the Spotlight: Media Recognition
ElixSea’s innovative approach has caught the attention of major publications worldwide. Forbes magazine in the US featured it in June 2023, highlighting how the project revolutionizes themed dining. Journey Magazine in the UK called it “A DROP IN THE OCEAN” in January 2024, while Germany’s Magazine Wein Feder covered it back in April 2021. Even National Geographic Spain included ElixSea in their list of six enjoyable ways to reconnect with Costa Brava. Clearly, this underwater winery is making waves beyond the sea.
