Tacoronte: Guided Winery Tour with Wine and Cheese Tastings

Tacoronte: Guided Winery Tour with Wine and Cheese Tastings — A Deep Dive into Canary Island Wines

Trying to decide whether a winery tour in Tenerife is worth your time? This review covers the key highlights, what you can expect, and why this experience has earned a solid 4.5/5 rating from hundreds of travelers. We’ll walk you through what makes the Bodegas Monje tour so appealing—and a few things to consider before booking. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a cheese lover, or just after some authentic local flavors with breathtaking views, this tour offers a genuine taste of the Canary Islands.

One thing we love about this experience is the chance to learn directly from knowledgeable guides about the unique Canary wines and their connection to the volcanic terrain. The pairing with artisan goat cheeses from different islands makes it even more special, turning tasting into a full sensory journey. A potential drawback? The tour lasts only around two hours, which some may find a bit brief if they’re eager to explore the winery in more detail. Still, it’s a perfect fit for those seeking a relaxed, informative experience that balances education with tasting.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic, small-group experiences and want a taste of local culture at a manageable pace. If you’re looking for a quick, engaging introduction to Tenerife’s wine scene, or want to combine scenery with a flavorful tasting, this is likely to be a great choice.

Key Points

• Authentic Canary wines: Learn about the distinct grape varieties grown in volcanic soil.
• Expert guidance: Knowledgeable guides like Caleb make the experience engaging and informative.
• Beautiful setting: The winery’s scenic location offers stunning views that enhance the tasting.
• Cheese pairing: Four artisan goat cheeses from the islands perfectly complement the wines.
• Historical insights: Discover the history of the Familia Monje and their longstanding family-run operation.
• Value for money: At $39, the experience offers a well-rounded tasting and educational tour.

What to Expect from the Winery Tour

The journey begins at Bodegas Monje in El Sauzal, a family-run winery that has been in operation since 1750. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel the warmth of a place steeped in tradition and surrounded by sweeping views of the coast. This isn’t a large commercial operation but a genuinely family-oriented winery, which adds a personal touch to your visit.

The Guided Tour: A Rich Look into Canary Wines

Your guide—most reviews highlight Caleb for his friendly yet professional manner—will steer you through the vineyards and winery facilities. You’ll gain insight into what makes Canary wines different. For example, the volcanic soil imparts a unique mineral quality that influences the grapes’ flavor. You’ll see the vineyards, learn about the grape varieties like Listán Negro and Dragoblanco, and get a sense of the traditional methods still used today.

While some reviews mention a desire for a walk through the vineyards, the focus remains on the winery interior and the production process, which is just as captivating. The guide explains the carbonic maceration process used for the Hollera red wine, giving you an understanding of the techniques that shape the wines’ character.

The Tasting: A Flavorful Journey

The highlight is, of course, the wine and cheese pairing. Expect to sample four wines, starting with a young Dragoblanco, a light white, paired with fresh goat cheese from Tenerife—deliciously creamy and tangy. You’ll then taste a carbonically macerated Hollera, which offers a more complex, smoked flavor, beautifully complemented by smoked goat cheese from La Palma.

Moving on, a young Monje Tradicional red pairs with a semi-cured, peppery goat cheese from Fuerteventura. This bold pairing reveals the versatility of local cheeses and wines. Finally, the tour concludes with a barrel-aged Listán Negro, matched with cured goat and sheep milk cheeses from Gran Canaria—an excellent way to appreciate the depth and aging potential of Canary reds.

Authenticity and Scenic Views

One of the most praised aspects, according to multiple reviews, is the stunning scenery around the winery. You might find the panoramic views of the coast and vineyards particularly captivating. Many guests stay afterward for a leisurely lunch or to browse the shop, where you can buy bottles to take home—though note that you might find it tricky to carry larger bottles on a plane.

Tour Details and Practicalities

The tour lasts approximately two hours—a perfect length for a relaxed yet thorough experience. It’s available in English and Spanish, with some tour times specifically scheduled for English on weekends at 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM, offering flexibility for different travelers.

Cost-wise, at $39 per person, this experience offers impressive value considering the quality of tastings and personalized guidance. It’s accessible for most travelers and includes all tastings, with additional food or drinks available separately.

Accessibility and Booking

The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for a broader audience. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds flexibility if your plans change. Booking in advance means you can reserve your preferred time slot and keep your plans flexible, with the reassurance of paying later.

Authentic Experiences and Highlights from Real Travelers

Many visitors emphasize the knowledgeable guides who not only teach about the wines but also share stories about the winery’s history. As one reviewer noted, Caleb’s mix of fun facts and humor made the experience memorable.

The wine and cheese pairing consistently earns praise; one guest described the goat cheeses as “the best they’ve ever tasted,” masterfully matched to the volcanic vines. Several reviews mention the scenic setting, noting that the views from the winery are “incredible” and add a special touch to the tasting experience.

A common theme is how this tour balances educational content with enjoyable tasting—not feeling rushed but offering enough time to savor the wines and soak in the surroundings.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Arrival and Welcome

You’ll start at the winery, greeted by staff and your guide, then move into the main tasting room or outdoor terraces, depending on the weather. Many reviewers mention staying after the guided part to soak in the scenery or chat longer with the staff.

Inside the Winery

The tour explores the production area, giving a behind-the-scenes look at the methods used to craft the wines. It’s not an exhaustive walk through every vineyard row, but enough to appreciate the craftsmanship behind the bottles.

The Tasting & Pairing

The tasting session is structured but relaxed, allowing you to savor each wine and cheese pairing. The wines are carefully selected to showcase the range of Canary reds and whites, with detailed explanations of each.

Wrap-up and Shopping

Most participants end their visit browsing the on-site shop, picking up bottles of their favorites or local products. This is a good opportunity for those wanting a souvenir or a gift, although space and baggage limitations are worth considering.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is especially suited for wine lovers eager to discover Canary varieties and learn about their unique characteristics. It’s also a great choice for foodies who enjoy cheese and local flavors. If you prefer detailed, interactive guides and scenic views, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Because it’s a smaller, family-run operation, it’s perfect for travelers seeking authentic, intimate experiences rather than large crowds. Its moderate price and duration make it a sensible addition to any day in Tenerife, especially if you’re keen on tasting and learning without a long commitment.

Summary

In essence, the Tacoronte guided winery tour at Bodegas Monje offers a well-crafted blend of history, education, and flavor. You’ll come away with a deeper understanding of Canary wines, having tasted some of the best local cheeses to match. The scenic setting, knowledgeable guides, and high-quality tastings make this a worthwhile experience for anyone curious about regional wines or craving a relaxed, authentic outing.

While the tour may feel brief for some, it hits the right notes of personalization, scenic beauty, and educational content—all at a reasonable price. For wine enthusiasts and curious travelers alike, this is an opportunity to enjoy Tenerife’s terroir in a friendly, approachable setting.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
While the tour focuses on wine and cheese, it does not include meat products, so vegetarians can enjoy the tastings and learn about the wines without concern.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about two hours, making it a manageable activity without taking up your entire day.

Are the tastings included in the price?
Yes, the price covers wine and cheese tastings. Additional food and drinks are not included.

Can I book the tour in English?
Yes, English tours are available, especially on weekends at 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM.

Is it wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and indoor/outdoor environments. No specific dress code is necessary.

Can I buy bottles to take home?
Absolutely, there’s a shop on site where you can purchase bottles, but consider baggage restrictions if flying.

Is there a dress code?
No formal dress code; casual attire is fine.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While mainly suited for adults, families with older children interested in wine and food may enjoy the experience.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

To sum it up, if you’re after a taste of Tenerife’s local wines paired with artisan cheeses in a scenic, authentic setting, this guided tour hits all the right notes. It’s practical, engaging, and offers excellent value—perfect for those who want a well-rounded, enjoyable experience without a long commitment.