Valley of Tegueste: Wine Tour with Tasting at El Lomo Winery

Discovering the Valley of Tegueste’s Wine Secrets: A Hands-On Tour at El Lomo Winery

Imagine walking through lush vineyards surrounded by forest, learning about grape varieties unique to the Canary Islands, and ending with a tasting of exclusive local wines—all in about two hours. That’s exactly what the Valley of Tegueste Wine Tour at El Lomo Winery offers. This guided experience not only introduces you to the region’s viticulture but also gives you a chance to savor wines that are limited editions and truly reflect the landscape’s character.

Two things I particularly appreciate about this tour are the personalized attention from passionate guides and the pairing of wines with local snacks like cheese, chorizo, and gofio cereals. You’ll also get a behind-the-scenes look at the bottling process and a visit to the charming El 18 Vermouth Bar—an added bonus for those curious about the region’s vermouth secrets.

A possible consideration for travelers is the duration and pace—it’s a fairly compact tour, so if you’re after a leisurely, multi-day wine adventure, this might feel a bit quick. Still, for a taste of authentic Canary wine culture without breaking the bank, it’s a great choice.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic Experience: Guided by knowledgeable staff, including passionate guides who speak both English and Spanish, you’ll gain genuine insights into local viticulture.
• Limited Edition Wines: The tasting includes Canary-specific wines, some of which are exclusive to this region, offering exceptional value and uniqueness.
• Educational and Fun: Learn about different grape varieties and the process behind creating vermouth at El 18 Vermouth Bar—delivering both knowledge and flavor.
• Affordable Price: At just $20 per person, you get a comprehensive experience that combines tour, tasting, and regional snacks—making it an excellent value.
• Family-Friendly: Kids from 6 to 12 years old can enjoy a non-alcoholic must (grape juice) tasting, making it suitable for families.
• Accessible & Flexible: The tour lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, with multiple start times available. It’s wheelchair accessible and allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Entering the Heart of Tegueste’s Vineyard World

The experience begins at the El Lomo Winery, located in the scenic Valley of Tegueste. Here, the setting immediately hints at the tranquility and natural beauty of the region—perfect for those who enjoy authentic, farm-to-table experiences. Meeting next to the Casita Canaria, the tour guides, including the often praised “sir” whose passion shines through, will start you on a journey through the vineyard and winery.

Walking through the Varietal Garden is a highlight—here you’ll see century-old vines and discover the region’s indigenous grape varieties. I love how this part of the tour emphasizes the importance of local terroir and ecological practices; it’s clear that sustainability is valued. The ecological orchard showcases local produce, giving a taste of the regional agricultural bounty.

The vineyard pass-by is not just a photo op—it’s an educational stroll that helps you understand how the climate and soil influence the grapes. Several reviewers noted how friendly and knowledgeable the guides are—”He explained everything very very well,” one said, which is exactly the kind of enthusiasm that makes a tasting memorable.

Behind the Scenes at the Winery

Next, you’ll step inside the cellar—a surprisingly spacious facility with a capacity of 200,000 liters—where the magic of wine-making happens. It’s fascinating to see the tanks, and it’s here that I appreciated how the guides explained the bottling process. Watching the methods used, you realize this isn’t mass-produced wine but small-batch, carefully crafted beverages.

The highlight is the tasting session, which features 1 or 2 young wines plus 1 or 2 limited-edition options, depending on the package. The wines are notably affordable—some reviewers bought bottles after the tasting, impressed by both the flavor and price point. Accompanying the wines are regional snacks like semi-cured cheese, almogrote (a cheese spread), and even chorizo de perro paired with palm honey, all designed to enhance the wine experience.

The Charm of El 18 Vermouth Bar

A true gem is the visit to El 18 Vermouth Bar. Here, the guides reveal the secrets behind vermouth production—an often-overlooked drink that has its own rich tradition in the Canary Islands. You can learn how vermouth is crafted, enjoy a tasting, and understand its place in local culture. For those interested, vermouth tastings and pairings are available for purchase—so if you’re a fan, it’s worth trying to sample or buy a bottle to take home.

The Final Tasting and Food Pairings

No wine tour would be complete without savoring the flavors. The tasting session pairs the wines with regional food products, turning a simple sip into an authentic culinary experience. Expect to nibble on cheese, chorizo, gofio cereals, and sweet potato chips—each carefully selected to complement the wines. Several reviews mention how the guide’s passion adds a warm touch, making what could be a routine tasting into a lively and informative moment.

You’ll find the value here is excellent—at only $20, it’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy a taste of Canary wine and culture. Plus, children can partake with alcohol-free must, making it a family-friendly outing.

Practical Information and Tips

The tour lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours and operates with flexible start times—check availability to pick what suits you. The meeting point at Casita Canaria is easy to find, and the tour concludes back at the starting point, making logistics simple.

Clothing-wise, wear comfortable shoes—there’s a fair amount of walking, and the uneven vineyard paths can catch you off guard. The tour is wheelchair accessible, which broadens its appeal to many visitors.

While transportation isn’t included, the location is accessible if you’re staying nearby or have a rental car. Remember, tasting options like vermouth are available to purchase, and the full experience is refundable if canceled more than 24 hours beforehand.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to discover local varietals, families looking for an educational outing, or travelers wanting an authentic taste of Canary culture without spending a fortune. It’s also suited to those who appreciate guided tours with engaging, passionate staff—the guides’ enthusiasm really elevates the experience.

If you’re visiting Tenerife and want a snapshot of the island’s viticulture—its traditions, flavors, and landscapes—this tour hits the sweet spot between education, fun, and value.

Final Thoughts on the Valley of Tegueste Wine Tour

This tour at El Lomo Winery offers a well-rounded, genuine look at Canary wine-making. You’ll appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the quality of wines, especially considering the affordable price. The opportunity to see century-old vines, learn about regional grape varieties, and taste exclusive wines makes it a memorable experience.

The inclusion of regional snacks and a visit to El 18 Vermouth Bar adds depth, showing that this isn’t just about drinking wine but understanding its cultural context. The relaxed pace, family-friendly options, and scenic vineyard walk make it accessible and enjoyable.

For those who want a taste of authentic Canary Island wine without a huge time or money commitment, this tour is a real winner. It’s a chance to connect with the land, the tradition, and the flavors that make Tenerife’s wine scene special—delivered with warmth and expertise.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, children from 6 to 12 can enjoy a non-alcoholic must (grape juice) tasting, making it a family-friendly activity.

How long does the tour last? Expect approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the group and pace.

Are there different tasting options? Yes, the standard package includes 1 or 2 young wines and 1 or 2 limited wines, with tasting options varying by package.

Does the tour include transportation? No, transportation to and from the winery is not included, so plan to arrive by your own means.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the winery accessible for wheelchairs? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for most visitors.

What should I wear? Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on vineyard paths and cellar floors.

In all, this experience is a delightful peek into Canary wine culture, balancing education, flavor, and affordability. Whether you’re a wine lover or just curious about regional traditions, it’s a practical and enjoyable way to spend a few hours in Tenerife.