Tenerife’s Tacoronte-Acentejo Wine Region Balances Heritage with Sustainable Innovation
The Tacoronte-Acentejo wine region in northern Tenerife preserves over 500 years of viticultural heritage while championing sustainability and cultural integration through its certified production of native grape varieties.
The Tacoronte-Acentejo wine region is a vital part of the economy and culture in northern Tenerife, stretching from Santa Cruz to Santa Úrsula. According to the region’s Regulatory Council, the area supports 1,109 winegrowers and 25 wineries, covering 650 hectares of vineyards. With a history spanning over 500 years, the region remains dedicated to native grape varieties like Listán Negro and Listán Blanco, which have helped protect the local landscape for generations.
The region produces a diverse range of wines, including carbonic maceration reds, whites, and dessert wines. Beyond production, the regulatory body prioritizes sustainability and quality control. Every bottle features a back label that guarantees the grapes' origin and confirms that the wine meets strict quality standards. The region is also a leader in environmental responsibility; it is the only one in the Canary Islands with wineries—specifically Bodegas Insulares Tenerife and Bodega Presas Ocampo—that hold the Sustainable Wineries for Climate Protection (SWfCP) certification. This seal recognizes excellence in governance and social responsibility.
The impact of Tacoronte-Acentejo goes beyond business, playing a key role in the island's cultural life. For over 20 years, the region has supported revitalization programs in La Laguna and promoted projects like the Art and Wine Biennial (La Vinal) and the publication Vinaletras. These initiatives, which can be explored on their website, highlight how the region views winemaking as a heritage asset. By focusing on sustainability, the area aims to balance farming with the preservation of Tenerife’s natural environment and historical legacy.