By The Canary Islands, belonging to Spain, are located about 1,150 km from the mainland, near the coast of Morocco. This volcanic archipelago boasts unique viticultural traditions, carefully preserved by the island’s residents and supported by local authorities. Approximately 40 grape varieties are cultivated here, including many indigenous and unique ones. Several islands in the archipelago have their own protected designations of origin, with Tenerife alone home to five such regions, while the other wine-producing islands each have one. The tradition of producing exceptionally sweet white wines is deeply rooted, as the Canary Islands were once known for Spain’s most renowned sweet wines.
On Tenerife, the largest island of the archipelago, diverse microclimates have formed, paving the way for multiple protected designations of origin. Let’s explore some of the island’s hidden wine regions and the exceptional wines they produce!
History
The winemaking tradition of Tenerife dates back to the Spanish conquest when the vineyards of the Canary Islands flourished and gained fame across Europe. Tenerife was once a favored wine-producing region for English and Spanish traders, with Malvasía wines becoming highly sought-after in the 16th and 17th centuries. Despite setbacks from the phylloxera plague and economic decline, the local wine culture has experienced a renaissance in recent decades.
Tenerife’s Wine Regions
Tacoronte-Acentejo: Located in the north of Tenerife, this was the island’s first officially recognized wine region. Its lush green landscapes and fresh sea breezes provide an ideal environment for vineyards. The local red wines are known for their bold flavors, often enriched with notes of berries and minerals.
Valle de La Orotava: Situated at the foot of Mount Teide, the Orotava Valley features steep slopes where vineyards are cultivated. Here, the ancient Solana training method is used, with vines grown close to the ground horizontally. The wines have a distinctive mineral character, thanks to the volcanic soil.
Abona: This wine region in the south of Tenerife benefits from a drier climate and higher altitudes, with cooler nights leading to riper grapes. Abona wines are lighter and feature citrus and tropical fruit notes.
Valle de Güímar: Found on the eastern side of the island, this region is particularly known for its white wines. These wines often exhibit refreshing citrus flavors, making them perfect for sunny days on the island.
Fun Facts and Highlights
One of the unique features of Tenerife’s winemaking is the diversity of local grape varieties. Listán Negro and Listán Blanco are two iconic grape types that, combined with volcanic soil, create a truly unique flavor profile. Local wineries are eager to experiment with these grapes, crafting diverse flavor profiles. Visitors are encouraged to explore the local wineries, participate in wine-tasting sessions, and gain insight into the winemaking process.
Food and Wine Pairing
Tenerife’s wines pair wonderfully with the island’s cuisine. The light, citrusy white wines complement seafood dishes, while the fuller-bodied red wines are an excellent match for the rich and spicy flavors of Canary Island cuisine. Try the classic Papas Arrugadas served with Mojo sauce, paired with a wine made from Listán Negro, to experience the essence of Canarian gastronomy.
The hidden wine regions of Tenerife are true gems, offering new experiences for wine enthusiasts. Tenerife’s wines are exceptional not only for their flavors but also for how they reflect the local culture and volcanic landscape. Whether tasting wines cultivated on the slopes of Mount Teide or enjoying the light flavors of coastal areas, Tenerife’s wines open the door to a special world that should not be missed.