Wine & Guachinches
Tenerife's north is a forgotten wine paradise. The island has five Denominaciones de Origen (protected designations of origin) and grows vines on volcanic soil at altitudes from 200 to 1,700 meters — some of the highest vineyards in Europe. The grape varieties are partly unique in the world, as phylloxera never reached the Canary Islands: Here, ungrafted vines still grow, which have been extinct elsewhere for 150 years.
The Most Important Wines
- Listán Negro: Tenerife's dominant red wine variety. Light, fruity, volcanic-mineral. Reminiscent of an elegant Pinot Noir.
- Listán Blanco: Fresh white wine with citrus aromas. Perfect with fish.
- Malvasía: The historical sweet wine of the Canaries, praised even by Shakespeare. Honey-colored, aromatic, complex.
- Negramoll: Aromatic red wine variety for rosé and light red wines.
Guachinches — Tenerife's Culinary Secret
A Guachinche (pronounced: gwa-TSCHIN-tsche) is something unique in the world: a temporary restaurant in a private house or garage, where winemakers serve their own wine along with simple, homemade food. No menu, no decor, no frills — just a few plastic chairs, Papas Arrugadas, grilled meat, and carafes of homemade wine.
Guachinches are only open as long as the wine lasts — then they close again until the next harvest. They are not listed in travel guides and constantly change. The best ones can be found via Google Maps (search for "guachinche"), local Facebook groups, or by asking locals. Prices: Main course 5–8€, carafe of wine 3–5€. An evening in a Guachinche rarely costs more than 25€ for two people — including wine and starters.
