Valle de Guimar is a DO on the southeastern coast of Tenerife, the largest of Spain's Canary Islands. The region, which takes its name from the coastal town of Guimar, won appellation status in 1996, making it one of the youngest appellations of the islands, together with neighboring Abona. A handful of bodegas (vineyards) pioneered winemaking here just over a century ago and the region has improved significantly thanks to subsidies from the government and the European Union.
This dry and crinkly landscape climbs first steadily then dramatically towards the center of the island, rising to more than 6500ft (1980m) within 7.5 miles (12km). Terraces are carved into the rippled terrain, supporting vines as well as potatoes and bananas, which vie for space. Pine trees are dotted about the region, particularly at higher altitudes. A distinctive strip of black volcanic sand unfolds from the slopes to the sea (west to east), dividing two of the region's towns, Guimar and Arafo, from each other and providing otherworldly vistas.
© Wikimedia/Javier1989canario
Like its neighbor Abona, Valle de Guimar's vineyards lie at varying altitudes on the southern slopes of Pico del Teide (Mount Teide), the third-highest active volcano in the world (after Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa in Hawaii). Some vineyards are planted as far up as 4900ft (1500m), putting them among the highest in Europe. However, the best grape-growing conditions are found at elevations of around 2600ft (800m), where the effects of the Mediterranean climate are mild and the soil is a vine-favoring mix of volcanic matter and clay. At lower altitudes, the soils are largely volcanic sand and jable (pumice) that are alkaline and poor in organic matter. At las medianas (middle altitudes) up to 700m, jable dominates.
White wines dominate production in this part of Tenerife, with Listan Blanco (Palomino) representing more than 60% of grapes planted. Examples are distinctive thanks to the special volcanic soils. Under the DO's regulations, espumoso (sparkling) wines can be made using Listan Blanco. Other important white varieties include Gual (Bual) and Malvasia Blanca. Dry and off-dry examples are authorized by the local Consejo Regulador wine authority, as well as a barrel-aged white.
Listan Negro is the prominent red grape, with Tinta Negra Mole, Tintilla (Trouseau) and Moscatel Negro also used in blends. Valle de Guimar wines range from young and fruity with varying degrees of residual sugar to more serious barrel-fermented styles. Rosado (rosé) wines may also be vinified.
Valle de Guimar remains a relatively small designation, but shows real promise and personality.
