Canary Islands, Spain

The Canary Islands Wine Region consists of several islands, including Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria, La Palma, and Fuerteventura. The islands are accessible by air, with international airports located on each major island. Flights from mainland Spain, Europe, and other international destinations connect to these airports. Inter-island flights and ferry services are available for travel between the islands.

The Canary Islands produce a range of unique wines that reflect the volcanic terroir and Atlantic influence. Some notable wine styles include:

• Red Wines: Made primarily from the Listán Negro grape, these wines showcase flavors of red fruit, earthiness, and volcanic minerality.

• White Wines: Produced from indigenous varieties like Listán Blanco and Malvasía, the white wines exhibit vibrant acidity, citrus, and tropical fruit notes.

• Malvasía Wines: The islands are renowned for their sweet Malvasía wines, offering luscious flavors of honey, dried fruits, and floral nuances.

• Unique Viticultural Techniques: The region is known for its distinct viticultural practices, including the use of volcanic ash pits (known as "hoyos") to protect vines from winds and increase soil fertility.

• Famous Wineries: Bodegas Monje (Tenerife), Bodegas El Grifo (Lanzarote), Bodega Los Bermejos (Lanzarote), and Bodegas Bentayga (Gran Canaria) are among the renowned wineries in the Canary Islands. These wineries offer guided tours, tastings, and insights into the region's winemaking traditions.

• Off the Beaten Track Discoveries: For a unique experience, consider visiting smaller, boutique wineries such as Bodega Viñátigo (Tenerife), Bodega Tajinaste (Tenerife), Bodegas Stratvs (Lanzarote), and Bodega El Níspero (La Palma). These hidden gems provide an intimate setting to discover lesser-known wines and engage with passionate winemakers.

The Canary Islands offer a vibrant culinary scene with a blend of traditional and modern dishes. Local cuisine highlights include:

• Fresh Seafood: Sample delicious fish and seafood dishes like "Papas Arrugadas" (wrinkled potatoes) with mojo sauce, "Sancocho Canario" (salted fish stew), and "Cherne" (local fish) prepared in various ways.

• Canarian Potatoes: These small potatoes boiled in saltwater and served with mojo sauce are a staple of the local cuisine.

• Goat and Pork Dishes: Try "Conejo en Salmorejo" (rabbit in a savory marinade) and "Cochinillo" (suckling pig) for an authentic taste of the islands.

• Local Restaurants: Some recommended restaurants include Restaurante Casa Marcos (Tenerife), El Navarro (Lanzarote), and Los Roques (located in El Hierro). These establishments showcase the flavors of the Canary Islands through their use of local ingredients and traditional recipes.

Aside from wine and gastronomy, the Canary Islands offer a range of cultural activities to enrich your experience:

• Explore Volcanic Landscapes: Visit Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote to witness the otherworldly volcanic landscapes and take a camel ride through the lava fields.

• Historical Sites: Discover the historic city of La Laguna in Tenerife, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or explore the colonial architecture and cobblestone streets of Vegueta in Gran Canaria.

• Outdoor Adventures: Engage in activities like hiking, surfing, and diving. Tenerife's Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain, offers breathtaking views, while the pristine waters surrounding the islands are perfect for underwater exploration.

• Traditional Festivals: Experience lively local festivals, such as Carnival in Santa Cruz de Tenerife or the Corpus Christi celebrations in La Orotava, where streets come alive with colorful decorations and traditional dances.