Cheeses and Wines of Tenerife: Discover Unique Flavors and Artisan Tradition
The cheeses and wines of Tenerife are an essential part of the Canary gastronomy. These products stand out for their unique flavors, influenced by the geography and microclimates of the island. The tradition and quality of cheese and wine making in Tenerife are reflected in its diverse cheese dairies and wineries. All this contributes to a unique gastronomic experience.
Tenerife is much more than volcanic landscapes and spectacular beaches: it is also an island with a deep cheese and wine tradition. Thanks to its climatic and geographical diversity, the island produces a wide variety of artisanal cheeses with intense flavors and unique textures. At the same time, its volcanic soils and terraced cultivation have given rise to wines with their own identity, recognized with designations of origin such as Tacoronte-Acentejo, Abona or Valle de La Orotava.
From small family cheese dairies in the midlands to wineries that combine ancient techniques with innovation, Tenerife offers an enogastronomic experience that is hard to match. In addition, there are wine routes and guided tours that allow visitors to learn about the winemaking process and enjoy tastings in privileged natural environments.
1. Cheeses from Tenerife
Wines from Tenerife
3. History and Culture of the Cheeses and Wines of Tenerife
Cheese making in Tenerife has its origins in ancestral traditions. Since ancient times, the inhabitants of the island have known how to take advantage of the natural resources and the richness of their land to produce high quality cheeses, becoming an emblem of the local gastronomy.
Origin of Cheese Making in Tenerife
The history of cheeses in Tenerife dates back to ancient times, where shepherds and cattle breeders of the island began to use the milk from their herds to make artisan cheeses. This practice has endured over the centuries, keeping the cheese-making tradition alive on the island.
Development of the Wine Industry in Tenerife
In parallel to the development of the cheese industry, the wine industry in Tenerife has experienced significant growth over the years. The influence of the volcanic geography and the unique microclimates of the island have allowed the creation of high quality wines, recognized both nationally and internationally.
Influence of Different Microclimates
The diverse microclimates present in Tenerife are fundamental in the production of cheeses and wines. These climatic variations have a direct impact on the development of the flavors and characteristics of these products, giving them a unique and differentiated personality.
Impact of Microclimates on Cheeses
- The microclimates influence the surrounding flora and fauna, giving distinctive nuances to the cheeses produced in different areas of the island.
- Temperatures and humidity levels vary according to the altitude and orientation of the terrain, generating cheeses with unique taste profiles.
Microclimates and Their Relationship to Wines
- The microclimates condition the ripening of the grapes used in winemaking, determining the character and complexity of Tenerife wines.
- The combination of climatic and geological factors on the island creates wines with a unique expression, reflecting the diversity of the local terroir.
4. Tasting and Tourism Experiences
Discover the diverse experiences that Tenerife has to offer in terms of cheese and wine tastings, guided visits to cheese dairies and wineries, all in a unique and enriching environment.
Cheese and Wine Tasting
Wine and Cheese: Specialty Store
Immerse yourself in the world of Tenerife’s flavors with cheese and wine tastings in a specialized store, where you can taste local delicacies and learn about their elaboration process.
Wine Experience at Vino y Queso
Live an unforgettable sensory experience at Vino y Queso, enjoying a variety of tastings that will allow you to explore the diversity of flavors and aromas of the region.
Guided Visits to Cheese Plants
Operation of Artisan Cheese Plants
Discover the art behind the production of cheeses in the artisan cheese factories of Tenerife, learning about the traditional process that gives life to these exquisite products.
Traditional Elaboration Process
Accompany expert cheesemakers on guided tours that will show you step by step how cheeses are made, from the selection of the milk to the final maturing process.
Guided Visits to Wineries
Winery Facilities and Vineyards
Tour the impressive facilities and vineyards of Tenerife’s prestigious wineries, where you can learn about the wine production process and its relationship with the environment.
Winemaking Process
Learn from expert winemakers about the fascinating winemaking process, from harvesting to bottling, discovering the secrets that make the region’s wines unique.