The Orotava valley descends from the slopes of Teide toward the north coast. Ancient volcanic soils, extreme old vines, and a tradition of training vines on overhead wire systems called patios -- vines trained horizontally 1.5-2m off the ground, creating shade for the fruit and the soil. Some of the most important Canarian producers work here.
Complex wines with genuine terroir expression. Reds from Listan Negro can have unexpected depth and structure. Whites from Listan Blanco and Gual show real complexity at altitude. This is where Canarian wine gets serious.
The Orotava valley has some of the oldest continuously-producing vines in the world -- pre-phylloxera, ungrafted, some over 200 years old. The trellised patio system is traditional and labour-intensive; it produces low-yielding, concentrated fruit.
Suertes del Marques 7 Fuentes or Trenzado if you can find it. Tajinaste Tradicional is a reliable entry point.
Municipalities: La Orotava, Los Realejos, San Juan de la Rambla