The Tenerife Wine Route: betwixt sea and sky

05/06/2012

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The Canary Islands, thanks to their rugged volcanic landscape, their subtropical location and their continuous exposure to the water-laden trade winds, are in a privileged spot for vine cultivation. The islands’ vineyards occupy numerous slopes at altitudes which range from sea-level to well over a thousand metres, planted in both traditional-like plantations as well as by using more unique methods – specific to these rather special islands. Up to nine appellations exist on the archipelago, although five are located on the largest island, Tenerife, with The Tenerife Wine Routepassing through two of them: DO Tacoronte-Acentejoand DO Valle de la Orotava.

A good part of the island’s territory has been associated with agriculture since time immemorial, viticulture in particular. In fact, this is the region which boasts the most native grape varieties belonging to the ancient European vine strains in Europe, as the phylloxera plague never took hold on the island and as a result it still preserves the genetic legacy of its native vines practically intact.

DO Tacoronte-Acentejo, located on the north side of the island of Tenerife, was the first DO to be recognised by the Canary Island Autonomous Region, and was also a pioneer in the introduction of carbonic maceration wines as well as Crianzas and Reservas. The appellation primarily makes reds, using local grape varieties such as Listán Negro and Negramoll, which give rise to fresh, fruity young wines, and full-bodied, potent wines when aged in oak. The white wines, made predominantly from the Listán Blanco, Malvasía, Gual, Moscatel and Verdello grape varieties, are well-balanced vivacious wines with intense aromas.