Tenerife wines are the result of more than five centuries of tradition and passion. In this volcanic land, bathed by the trade winds and the Atlantic, the vines are not just a crop: they are a landscape, culture and memory. Every glass calls up the power of the volcano, the freshness of the sea and the know-how of generations of winemakers who have turned the island into a unique mosaic of vineyards and wines.
A diverse territory, infinite richness
In just 3,200 hectares of vineyards—17% of the cultivated area—there is a surprising variety of microclimates and soils that give rise to wines with their own character. Red, white, rosé, sweet or sparkling… every one of them brings the volcanic and Atlantic essence of Tenerife to their flavour. More than a hundred wineries offer unforgettable experiences: tastings in volcanic settings, guided tours, pairings with Canarian cheeses or wine routes that allow you to discover the island from a new perspective.
Iconic varieties and Designations of Origin
Black listán and white listán are the most representative grapes of the archipelago. They are the source of young and aged reds with notes of earth and black fruits, and fresh or sweet whites with vibrant acidity and fruity aromas. Alongside them, the golden and aromatic malvasias recall the historical legacy of the famous Canary Sacks, which were coveted by European courts of the 16th and 17th centuries and even mentioned by renowned authors including Shakespeare.
The island has five Denominations of Origin that reflect its diversity:
- Tacoronte-Acentejo: in the north, with fruity and aromatic reds representing 80% of production, plus young whites and rosés as well.
- Valle de La Orotava: in the shadow of Mount Teide, with elegant and slightly bitter whites, raspberry-coloured rosés and soft reds. The iconic feature of its viticultural landscape is the traditional braided cord growing method.
- Valle de Güímar: in the south, where fresh and fruity whites predominate (80% of production), along with earthy reds, rosés that feature red fruit flavours, sweet wines with hints of honey, and fine-bubble sparkling wines.
- Ycoden-Daute-Isora: in the northwest, heirs of the fabled ‘Canary wines’, with dry whites with distinct freshness, golden and tropical pink malvasias, as well as intense reds with a long aftertaste.
- Abona: in the south, with vineyards at the highest altitudes in Spain in Vilaflor. Its whites offer shades of almond, mango and banana, and it also features full-bodied reds and rosés.
In addition to the local indicators, there is also the Canary Islands Protected Designation of Origin. This was created in 2011 as a unifying project backed by the Canary Islands Association of Wine Growers and Winemakers. Its objective is to strengthen the regional market and bolster the archipelago’s wines on the international stage.
Tradition and modernity
Tenerife viticulture combines ancient techniques with sustainable practices. Systems such as the low trellis and the braided cord are truly agricultural works of art that adapt to the volcanic terrain and allow the land to be used for other crops. At the same time, the wineries are exploring new premium lines that consolidate the wines’ defining traits while increasing quality.
An experience that excites
To discover the wines of Tenerife is to explore the island through its aromas and textures. It is feeling how each sip connects with the volcanic land, the trade winds and the dedication of generations of winemakers. An authentic experience that makes Tenerife a destination where you don’t just drink wine: you live it. It is also a story of effort and tradition that can be experienced up close on the wine routes that are organised in a number of cities and towns, on visits to the wineries scattered throughout the island and in spaces such as the Casa del Vino.
Each visit opens the door to unique experiences such as walks through vineyards and wineries, guided tastings where you can try the wines of every winery or samplings paired with local products such as cheese, almogrote, gofio and honey. All this makes wine a common thread that allows you to discover Tenerife from a sensory perspective, awakening emotions in every glass.
