Gran Canaria for 
Gran Canaria and its Wines
One of the unique aspects of the island of Gran Canaria is the diversity of microclimates that are found on the island, which is why grapes of the same variety that are cultivated in a very small geographical area, present such a wide range of oenological characteristics. Another distinctive characteristic of the local wines is the fact that most of the vines were introduced onto the island before the occurrence of the phylloxera plague that devastated Europe’s vineyards.
Consequently, it is possible to cultivate the vines without having to resort to grafting, which is why the island’s viticulture enjoys certain unique characteristics.
History
The first vines were introduced into the Canary Islands by the Spanish during the 15th century. The production of wine became a flourishing economic activity in less than fifty years.
At first, wine was only produced for the local market, but towards the middle of the 16th century, the wine producers of the Canary Islands were exporting wine to England and Northern Europe, as well as the Portuguese and Spanish colonies in Africa and America.
However, the 18th century saw a slow decline in the production of wine, due to the deterioration of relations between England and Spain, as well as a series of administrative and bureaucratic obstructions that were imposed by the “Casa de Contratación” (Board of Trade) in Seville. The low point was reached in the 19th century, when the island’s vineyards were infected by two plagues, namely oidium and mildew. During recent years, a comprehensive effort has been set in motion with the aim of initiating a recovery of the wine industry and, little by little, the wines of Gran Canaria are regaining the prominent position that they enjoyed in the past.
Wines
In the 16th century, the most famous of the wines that were exported from the Canary Islands were known as “malvasia” or simply “vino de Canarias” (wine from the Canaries).
At present, a much more extensive range of wines are being produced on the island under the denomination of origin, “Monte Lentiscal”, and the denomination of origin, “Gran Canaria”. The grape varieties that are most widely cultivated are common black, negramoll, tintilla, black moscatel, malvasia and listan.
Both denominations encompass approximately twelve commercial brands that produce young, red and white wines. These magnificent wines have already conquered the local market and their fame is growing steadily.
Visiting the Wine Cellars. The Wine Route
The best way to get to know the wine culture of Gran Canaria is to visit the island’s wine cellars. Some of these cellars have their own museums and virtually every cellar has tasting facilities, where you can buy the local wines directly. In many cellars, you can also enjoy the local cuisine by prior reservation. This “rebirth” of viticulture in Gran Canaria has been enriched by the inauguration of the Wine Museum, which is located in a house in the centre of Santa Brígida that is more than two centuries old.
More Information: Vinest. The Network for Small European Wine Areas
