L’escaldà de la pansa: when Muscat grapes become tradition
Some traditions tell us much more than simply how something is done. They speak of the land, its people and a way of life that has been connected to the countryside for generations. L’escaldà de la pansa, the traditional raisin-making process, is one of them.
In Gata and other villages across the Marina Alta, raisin production is part of the memory and history of many families. A tradition connected to the cultivation of Muscat grapes and to an artisanal process that transforms fresh grapes into the raisins we know today.
But how is it done?
It all begins with Muscat grapes, harvested when they reach the right stage of ripeness. Then comes one of the most characteristic moments of the process: l’escaldà. The bunches of grapes are briefly dipped into a hot solution that helps break the skin of the grapes and allows them to lose moisture more easily during drying.
After this process, the grapes are traditionally left to dry in the sun, often on reed drying racks. Over the following days, the grapes gradually lose water, their flavours become more concentrated and the fresh fruit is transformed into raisins.
It may seem like a simple process, but behind it lies knowledge passed down from generation to generation. It is a way of making use of the land’s resources while preserving a product for much longer.
A tradition that is still alive
Even today, this traditional process continues in different villages, with events and demonstrations helping to keep the tradition alive. Because recovering and sharing these traditional crafts is also a way of preserving local identity.
And if there is something else that helps keep a village’s identity alive, it is its local businesses. In Gata, many shops and businesses continue to support local products, traditional crafts and that close, personal way of shopping that is such an important part of village life.
When you visit Gata, take some time to stroll through its streets and explore its shops. Discover craft stores, food shops, bakeries, butchers and other local businesses where traditional flavours and products are still part of everyday life.
Because shopping locally is also a way of preserving our traditions. Every purchase helps keep local businesses, crafts and the stories that make Gata unique alive.
And in Gata, where tradition, craftsmanship and local businesses continue to go hand in hand, talking about raisins also means talking about a part of our history.
Perhaps the most beautiful thing about traditions is that they do not simply belong to the past. They return every year, are shared with others and remind us where we come from.
And this is also one of the best ways to enjoy the village delights: discovering Gata, learning about its traditions and supporting the people who help keep the village alive every day.