Visits to Wine Cellars
Tenerife’s winemaking heritage, dating back to the 15th century, makes a visit to a wine cellar an unmissable experience for wine enthusiasts and lovers of tradition. These cellars not only offer insights into the island’s rich viticultural history but also showcase the dedication and craftsmanship involved in producing some of the finest wines in the world.
Running Wine Yards in Tenerife
In the viticultural area of D.O. Ycoden Daute Isora, vineyards are cultivated at altitudes ranging from 50 to 1,500 meters. The influence of the Atlantic Ocean and trade winds contributes to the exceptional quality of these wines. The vineyards are typically small, steep, and minimally mechanized, with soils composed of volcanic ash and rock. Traditional cultivation methods such as trained wiredraw, multiple string techniques, and rastras are still employed alongside modern espalier systems, which are favored for their efficiency and higher yields.
The Unique Viticulture of Valle de La Orotava
The D.O. Valle de La Orotava region lies between 400 and 800 meters above sea level, in areas known as “medianías.” The soil here is volcanic in origin, characterized by its red color, loose structure, permeability, and fertility. Found on hillsides and streambeds, these grounds support robust viticulture, often incorporating wine arbors that create twisting structures resembling giant cacti. Modern techniques are increasingly being adopted, such as espalier cultivation, to optimize grape production and meet the growing demand for high-quality wines.
Viticulture in D.O. Tacoronte Acentejo
The D.O. Tacoronte Acentejo region is situated between 300 and 750 meters in middle-high altitudes. This area accounts for 40% of Tenerife’s cultivated land dedicated to viticulture. The volcanic soil is fertile, reddish in color, and rich in organic material, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. While traditional methods were predominant until the late 20th century, viticulture here has evolved to embrace modern practices. Espaliers and vine arbors are now widely used, allowing for more competitive and enologically significant grape varieties.
Viticulture in D.O. Abona
In the D.O. Abona region, vineyards are primarily found between 400 and 1,700 meters above sea level, with Vilaflor hosting the highest vineyard in Tenerife and all of Europe. This high-altitude viticulture benefits from innovative water conservation techniques, such as covering the soil with volcanic sand or “jable” to retain moisture. Cultivation is carried out either with single plants or in denser arrangements, ensuring the best use of limited resources while producing exceptional wines.
Viticulture in D.O. Valle de Güímar
The D.O. Valle de Güímar region stretches from mid-altitude areas to mountain peaks, with vineyards cultivated between 250 and 1,600 meters. At higher elevations, small plots with clayey, organic-rich soil dominate, while mid-altitude vineyards are characterized by poorer, alkaline soil. Traditional methods remain prevalent, though modern espalier systems have also been introduced to enhance efficiency and optimize grape quality.
Discover Tenerife’s Wines and Cellars
Are you ready to delve into the world of Tenerife’s vineyards and wine cellars? From the highest altitudes in Europe to the rugged hillsides shaped by volcanic soil, Tenerife offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation in winemaking. Explore the island’s wine routes, meet passionate producers, and savor the extraordinary flavors that define Tenerife as a world-class wine destination.