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The Gran Canaria wine region is one of seven Spanish-owned islands of the Canary islands that are much closer to Africa than to the Spanish mainland. The island has adopted many characteristics common to the Iberian peninsula, including wine cultivation. The wine region is largely volcanic in nature with rocky soil and scarce water. The wine production in this off-beat wine region is limited and only a few wines make out of the Canary islands. The elegant red wines from Gran Canaria are made from grapes grown just behind Maspalomas and are one of the best Canarian wines you'll ever taste.

Check out the best wine tastings and tours in Gran Canaria!

Where is the Gran Canaria wine region?

Gran Canaria is the third-largest out of seven islands forming the Canary islands, located east of Tenerife and southwest of Fuerteventura. The island is almost circular, about 45 kilometres across, and is centred on the towering Pico de Nieves volcanic peak. The island is located on the Atlantic coast in the Macaronesia region, just 150km northwest of Africa. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the largest city on the Canary islands, serves as the capital of Gran Canaria. This is the place to go if you're looking for lesser-known and off-the-beaten-path wine destinations.

History of the Gran Canaria wine region

The settlement in the Gran Canaria began as early as 500BC during the incursions of the Europeans. The island was undertaken by the crown of Castile on 1483 during the expansion of unified Spain. Although viticulture and winemaking go back to the medieval period, the region received its Denominación de Origen in the early 2000 and is the newest designated wine region of the Canary islands. Before that, the Gran Canaria wine region was a member of Vinest, a special program promoting small viticultural areas that is unique. The island boasts various microclimates with distinct features that are surprisingly good for grape cultivation. The vineyards were developed during the 15th century by the Spanish immigrants which turned out to be the most important source of income for the island. The wines are often exported to England, Northern Europe, Spain, Africa, and Latin American colonies. 

The terroir and geography of the Gran Canaria wine region

Gran Canaria, like the rest of the archipelago's islands, is volcanic in origin featuring mountainous terrain and rippled topography. This varied topography and mountains across the region create several microclimates within the island, which are one of the most distinguishing features of Gran Canaria. Gran Canaria's vines grow in a variety of unique soils, providing unique conditions for grapes to grow. The island is highly influenced by the Mediterranean climate. Vineyards at the Lanzarote are famous for their unique viticulture practices by leaving a large chunk of cauldron soil around the base of the vines to retain the water. 

Popular grape varieties from the Gran Canaria wine region

The most popular variety in the Gran Canaria is Listán which is used to make both white and red wines in the region. The Principal variety for producing white wines is Listán Blanco also known as Palomino. The red wines are produced mostly with Listán Negro. Malvasia grapes are often blended to make white wines to enhance flavors. The Gran Canaria wine region also produces sweet wines mostly from Moscatel grapes that comprise high sugar content. Other significant grape variety grown in the region are Tintilla, Tinta Negra Mole, Malvasia Rosada, Malvasia, Gual and Marmajuelo.

Food to pair with Gran Canaria wine 

Chorizo

Chorizo is a Spanish sausage comprised of chopped pork meat and fat that has been seasoned with paprika and, sometimes, garlic. It is quite similar to the Portuguese chouriço. Chorizos are fermented and cured in Europe. Some chorizo sausages aren't fermented or cured and must be cooked before eating. Despite the fact that both Spanish chorizo and Portuguese chouriço get their smokiness and rich red color from dried, smoked red peppers, the sausages are substantially different. Chorizo is a versatile sausage that can be sliced, fried, grilled, cooked in liquids, or topped on pizza. These sausages go well with red wines from Gran Canaria, especially ones that are made from Listan Negro. 

Parmo

Parmo is a popular British dish that originated in Middlesbrough, North Yorkshire. The dish is made with breaded chicken cutlet covered in a white bechamel creamy sauce usually Cheddar cheese. The dish is often topped with anything from cheese and bacon to pepperoni and garlic sauce. Traditionally, the dish is served with a huge serving of chips and a salad on the side and has been one of the most popular takeaway food. The dish is also said to be the evolved form of another dish, Chicken Parmesan, which uses tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. 

Grilled Portobello mushrooms

Portobello mushroom is the same as white button mushroom, except it is older. When compared to younger white mushrooms, these mushrooms are brown and huge.

Portobello mushrooms are coated with the marinade, oil, and spices on both sides before grilling cap side down until slightly charred. Lemon juice, cheese, or vinaigrette are frequently added to the dish. These portobello mushrooms have a meaty flavor that pairs well with white wines made from Listán Blanco.

Places to visit in the Gran Canaria wine region

Dunes of Maspalomas

Dunes of Maspalomas is located in the southern coastal area of the Gran Canaria island in the province of Las Palmas. The Maspalomas dunes have been protected as a nature reserve since the late 20th century and are taken as one of the 12 treasures of Spain. This impressive location is one of the most photographed areas on the island. Spread across 404 hectares in the municipality of San Bartolome de Tirajana, the dunes go over 10 meters high around the banks of Maspalomas Beach. Visitors often ride camels to go through the dunes which is the most popular activity among tourists. 

Church of San Juan Bautista (Arucas)

The Arucas Church also known as the Church of San Juan Bautista is a historic catholic church located in the city of Arucas. The construction of this neoclassical church began in 1909 and was completed in 1977. The church is often regarded as the Arucas Cathedral due to its immense size. The church has been the emblematic structure for the locals. The Church of San Juan Bautista is an excellent example of stonework, with massive towers, pointed arches, and a wonderfully stunning façade. 

Frequently asked questions about Gran Canaria

Where is the Gran Canaria wine region located?

Gran Canaria is the third-largest of the seven Canary Islands, situated east of Tenerife and southwest of Fuerteventura. The island is nearly circular, measuring about 45 kilometres across, and is centred on the massive Pico de Nieves volcanic summit. The island is located on the Atlantic coast in the Macaronesia region, just 150km northwest of Africa.

What are the most famous wineries in this region?

Bodega San Juan

What are some of the best Gran Canaria wines that people should try?

Fronton de Oro Tinto Tradicional, Gran Canaria, Spain
Destilerias Arehucas Carta Oro Rum, Gran Canaria, Spain
Tameran Marmajuelo, Gran Canaria, Spain
Carmelo Pena Santana 'Ikewen' Tinto, Gran Canaria, Spain
Carmelo Pena Santana Tidao, Gran Canaria, Spain

What are the different kinds of grapes that grow in the Gran Canaria appellation?

Listán is the most prevalent type in Gran Canaria, and it is used to make both white and red wines in the region. Listán Blanco, often known as Palomino, is the primary variety used to make white wines. The red wines are typically made with Listán Negro. Malvasia grapes are frequently combined into white wines to increase flavor. The Gran Canaria wine region also produces sweet wines, most of which are made from Moscatel grapes, which have a high sugar content. Tintilla, Tinta Negra Mole, Malvasia Rosada, Malvasia, Gual, and Marmajuelo are among important grape varieties produced in the region.

What kind of wine is a Gran Canaria?

Red wines have a bright cherry red color. The wine features the intense aroma of ripe fruit, minerals, and wood. These wines are very versatile and can be paired with all kinds of rice, pasta, white meat, and aged cheeses.

Map of Wineries in Gran Canaria

Discover the locations of wineries in Gran Canaria