Before you choose
What you need to know about this experience
A private Canarian wine tasting is a session led by a sommelier at your accommodation, a villa, a hotel or a private venue, in which several wines from the islands are tasted and discussed, usually with local products such as Canarian cheese. It typicalland thests about two hours.
There is no need to travel or worry about driving. This page helps you choose the format, the number of wines and the provider to suit the occasion.
At a glance
| Aspect | What to expect |
|---|---|
| What it is | Tasting led by a sommelier away from the winery |
| Where | Villa, house, hotel, company premises or private venue |
| Duration | About 2 hours in the offers reviewed |
| Wines | Usually between 3 and 6 wines from different areas |
| Accompaniment | Canarian cheese, breadsticks or other local products; food pairing in some offers |
| Group | From couples to groups or companies; some offers set a minimum |
| Age | Adults only for tasting |
| Price | Depends on the number of wines, the group and the accompaniment |
What happens
- Arrival of the sommelier and setting up the equipment (glasses, wines, accompaniment).
- Introduction to the history of wine in the Canary Islands, its areas and its grape varieties.
- Guided tasting wine by wine: appearance, nose and palate.
- Pairing with local products.
- Conversation and questions.
Formats
| Format | Suits you if… |
|---|---|
| Tasting at your accommodation | You are in a villa or house and want a plan without going out |
| Tasting for celebrations | Birthdays, anniversaries, hen and stag parties |
| Tasting for companies | Events, incentives, team meetings |
| Tasting at a hotel | The hotel offers it or allows you to book it |
| Themed tasting | By area, grape variety or wines from Tenerife’s five denominations of origin |
If you would rather go to the winery, see the winery visit and tasting or the wine route.
Which wines are usually tasted
A balanced tasting usually includes a dry white, a fruity white or malvasÃa, and one or more reds, often from listán negro. Many sommeliers choose wines from different denominations of origin to show the island’s diversity.
Who it suits
- Groups staying in villas or holiday homes.
- Private celebrations.
- Companies looking for a team activity.
- People who want to learn about Canarian wine without going anywhere.
Who it may not suit, and what to weigh up
- Anyone who wants to see vineyards and wineries: a visit or a route is a better choice.
- Very small groups on a tight budget: some offers set a minimum number of participants.
- Minors or people who do not drink: ask about alternatives.
How to choose well
- How many wines, and from which areas?
- What accompaniment is included?
- Does the sommelier bring glasses and all the equipment?
- Is there a minimum or maximum number of people?
- Can it be adapted to an occasion or a theme?
- Is travel to your area included?
- Can you buy the wines you taste?
- Language of the tasting?
What is usually included and what to check
| Item | Usual practice | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Sommelier | Included | Language |
| Wines | Included | Number and areas |
| Glasses and equipment | Included in many offers | Whether you need to provide anything |
| Accompaniment | Common | Allergies and diets |
| Travel | Depends on the area | Supplement |
Safety
- Allergies and intolerances: tell them in advance if there is food pairing.
- Responsible drinking: tastings involve small amounts; drink water between wines.
- Nobody drives afterwards if they have been tasting.
Price: what it depends on
We do not give a reference figure: formats vary a lot depending on the number of wines, the group and the accompaniment.
- Number of wines and their range.
- Number of people.
- Pairing.
- Travel.
What to prepare
- A space with a table and good light.
- Cold water.
- Clear directions to your accommodation.
Alternatives and how to compare them
| If you are looking for… | Best option |
|---|---|
| Several wineries with transport | Tenerife wine route |
| A specific winery | Winery visit and tasting |
| Canarian produce beyond wine | Tenerife food tour |
| Learning to cook Canarian food | Canarian mojo workshop |
Frequently asked questions
Where does the private tasting take place?
At your accommodation, a villa, a hotel or a private venue.
How many wines are tasted?
Usually between 3 and 6, depending on the offer.
How long does it last?
About two hours.
Is food included?
Usually an accompaniment of local products; some offers include a more complete food pairing.
Is there a minimum number of people?
Some offers set a minimum. Ask.
Is it suitable for a celebration or a company?
Yes, that is one of its most common uses.