“Wine and chess share something essential: a taste for the slow and the thoughtful.”
In the heart of Binissalem lies a winery with a soul of its own. At the helm is Andreu Villalonga, a man who needs neither flashy campaigns nor prestigious labels to prove the quality of his wines. With a calm smile and a unique way of doing things, he represents the fourth generation of a family that has spent over 80 years producing direct, honest, and down-to-earth wine.
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Andreu doesn’t follow trends or play by the conventional market rules. At Bodega Vins Ca’n Novell, they prioritise direct sales, without intermediaries or unnecessary extras, and carefully tend to every part of the process — from environmental responsibility to reusing bottles returned by loyal customers. For decades, some have continued receiving his bottles at home as if it were a family tradition.
Far from being a hobbyist’s winery, Ca’n Novell produces over 100,000 bottles a year and has become a must-stop for those visiting the Binissalem market. His wine has something special: character, flavour, and a story to tell.
This year, Andreu once again returns to the chessboard as a collaborator in the 2nd Chess Tournament organised by Vins Morell as part of the 22nd Stone and Craft Fair (Fira de la Pedra i l’Artesania). Because if there’s one thing chess and wine have in common, it’s the appreciation for doing things slowly, intelligently… and with great style.
Q: Andreu Villalonga, how did the idea of linking a winery with a chess tournament come about?
A.V.: The idea came up during a casual chess game with friends, and the federation quickly supported it. Chess is a game that, like wine, requires time, strategy, and the ability to enjoy the moment. It fits perfectly with the spirit of our winery and the fair.
Q: Andreu Villalonga, what does participating in the Stone and Craft Fair mean to you?
A.V.: It’s a must-attend event. Not only because of the cultural and heritage value of the stonework, but also because it’s a meeting point for townspeople, visitors, and artisans. Binissalem comes alive during these days, and it’s an honour to be part of it with such a unique proposal as the tournament.
Q: Andreu Villalonga, will there be wine during the tournament?
A.V.: (Laughs) Of course! There will be moderate tastings for attendees. That said, we recommend players wait until after the final move to raise their glasses.
Q: Andreu Villalonga, what are your hopes for this edition?
A.V.: More participants, more energy, and more connection between culture, wine, and chess. We want this tournament to become a tradition within the fair.
Q: Andreu Villalonga, any final message for those who haven’t yet been tempted to come?
A.V.: Come by, even if you don’t play. Chess is a spectacle, and if you pair it with good local wine, surrounded by crafts and stonework, it becomes a unique experience. We’ll be waiting for you in Binissalem!
For Binissalem, wine is much more than a drink: it is history, culture, and tradition deeply rooted in its identity. This Mallorcan town has cultivated vineyards for centuries, becoming the winemaking heart of the island. Wine represents the effort of generations who have cared for the land with passion, passing down knowledge and craftsmanship. It is also an economic driver and a symbol of local pride, especially evident during the Festa des Vermar, where the harvest is joyfully celebrated as a community. In Binissalem, wine is a way of life that honors the past and looks toward the future.