Tenerife Restaurants Lead Promotion of Local Wines at Regional Competition

Restaurants in southern Tenerife have cemented their status as leaders in promoting local products, according to results from the 23rd Canary Islands Regional Wine List Competition. Organized by the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) Islas Canarias – Canary Wine and PDO Ycoden Daute Isora, the event highlights how hospitality venues across the islands are increasingly professionalizing their wine offerings.

The jury, led by sommelier Javier Gila, awarded top honors to Char Fuego y Brasas at the Baobab Suites Hotel in Adeje. The restaurant was recognized for its cohesive wine list and its success in reflecting the local identity. In the same region, Haydée by Víctor Suárez at the Hotel Gran Tacande won the award for design and presentation, praised for a menu that beautifully connects its wine selection to the islands' unique Atlantic and geological landscape.

By rewarding excellence in wine management, the competition aims to boost the consumption of local wines. This initiative encourages restaurants to feature more Canary Island labels, which is vital for supporting the region’s agricultural sector. This year’s competition included fourteen venues from Tenerife and Lanzarote, showcasing a diverse range of establishments from wine bars to fine-dining restaurants across the islands.

During the event on Monday, August 10, sommelier Iván Monreal Herrera was named the 2026 Canary Wine Ambassador, succeeding British expert Tim Atkin. With over 20 years of experience in European fine dining, Monreal led a training session on commercial strategy and wine list design, stressing the importance of technical expertise in modern gastronomy. The event concluded with a wine showcase, reinforcing the strong partnership between the Canary Islands' agricultural producers and its high-end dining scene.