Malvasia wine in Tenerife boasts a long and storied history, deeply entwined with the island’s culture and heritage. Below is an in-depth exploration of these wines, their origins, production processes, and cultural significance.
History of Malvasia Wine on Tenerife
The history of Malvasia wine on Tenerife dates back to the 15th century, shortly after the Spanish conquest of the Canary Islands. Spanish settlers introduced grapevines to the island, including the Malvasia grape, originally from the Mediterranean, particularly Greece. The Canary Islands served as a stopover for ships en route to the New World, significantly boosting the wine trade.
During the 16th and 17th centuries, Malvasia wines—known as “Canary Wines”—gained international fame. They were especially popular in England, where the sweet wine became a favorite at court and among writers such as Shakespeare and John Milton. In The Merry Wives of Windsor, Shakespeare even refers to “Canary sack,” a term denoting Malvasia wines.
The demand for these wines was so high that Tenerife thrived as a wine exporter, with Malvasia becoming one of its most valuable commodities. This golden era of Malvasia trade, however, eventually waned due to competition from Madeira and the rise of sherry production, along with grape blights and political challenges in the 18th century.
The Malvasia Grape
The Malvasia grape is an aromatic variety that thrives in Tenerife’s volcanic soils. The unique terroir, shaped by the Teide volcano, imparts mineral qualities and complexity to the wines. The island’s dry climate and varying altitudes are also key factors in cultivating these grapes.
There are two main Malvasia varieties on Tenerife: the Malvasia Aromática, known for its intensely floral and fruity aromas and the Malvasia Volcánica consisting of a unique variant native to the Canary Islands, characterized by its complexity and pronounced minerality.
Production and Styles
Malvasia wines from Tenerife are produced using traditional methods. The process begins with hand-harvesting the grapes, often on steep vineyard terraces. This labor-intensive approach ensures the quality of the fruit.
Malvasia wines are available in a range of styles:
Sweet dessert wines: Historically the most famous, made from overripe or sun-dried grapes.
Semi-sweet wines: A lighter option with a subtle sweetness.
Dry wines: Modern winemakers on Tenerife have achieved success with dry Malvasia wines, appreciated for their refreshing acidity and mineral notes.
Sparkling wines: While less common, some bodegas experiment with sparkling Malvasia wines.
Protected Designations of Origin
Tenerife boasts several wine regions with Protected Designations of Origin (Denominación de Origen). The most notable include: DO Abona, DO Tacoronte-Acentejo, DO Valle de Güímar, DO Valle de La Orotava and DO Ycoden-Daute-Isora.
Malvasia wine production is concentrated in areas like La Orotava and Icod de los Vinos, where the volcanic soil and microclimate create ideal conditions for these grapes.
The Revival of Malvasia
After centuries of relative obscurity, Malvasia wine on Tenerife is experiencing a renaissance. A new generation of winemakers combines tradition with modern techniques to produce high-quality wines that receive local and international acclaim.
Local initiatives, such as the Casa del Vino in El Sauzal, play a significant role in promoting Tenerife’s wine heritage. Visitors can explore the island’s rich wine culture and learn about the unique characteristics of Malvasia wines.
Tasting Notes and Pairings
Malvasia wines are celebrated for their versatility and expressive aromas. Sweet Malvasia wines feature notes of honey, dried fruits, and tropical flavors, while dry varieties offer refreshing minerality and citrus tones.
These wines pair beautifully with local dishes such as Queso asado: grilled cheese with mojo sauce, Gofio amasado: a traditional dish made from roasted grains and Sancocho canario: a traditional fish stew.
For sweet wines, desserts like bienmesabe (an almond and honey pudding) make the perfect accompaniment.
The Future of Malvasia Wine
The future of Malvasia wine on Tenerife looks promising. With growing international demand for unique and authentic wines, Malvasia remains a key asset for the island. Tourism also contributes to the wine’s popularity, as visitors are often drawn to Tenerife’s local gastronomy and wine culture.
In an era where wine enthusiasts seek distinctive and lesser-known regions, Tenerife’s Malvasia wines offer a compelling blend of history, craftsmanship, and flavor. Malvasia wines are not just a product of the island—they reflect the soul of Tenerife, a place where tradition and innovation coexist harmoniously.
For those eager to delve deeper into Tenerife’s wine culture, further resources and information can be found [HERE].
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Malvasia Wine on Tenerife ©
More TRIVIA can be read [HERE].
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