In the heart of Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife, lies Vinoteca Con Pasión, a unique venue that pays homage to the wines of the Canary Islands and the deep love for their land. Run by Jacinto, his partner and business associate Jochem, and their third partner Yori, this charming wine shop celebrates the distinct flavors of the islands. After 48 years in the Netherlands working in gastronomy, Jacinto returned to his roots to create a wine haven exclusively dedicated to the local treasures.
Since opening, Vinoteca Con Pasión has been more than just a store; it educates and captivates visitors with the rich history of Canarian wines. We spoke to Jacinto to learn more about his journey, vision, and unique offerings, discovering a true ode to Canarian wine and local hospitality.
The Inspiration Behind Vinoteca Con Pasión
Jacinto shares that the idea for a wine shop came from a desire to see more Canarian wines served in Tenerife’s restaurants. “Twenty years ago, there were hardly any Canarian wines in local establishments. That struck me as a loss, given their value and history,” Jacinto explains. From this realization, Vinoteca Con Pasión was born, now boasting a carefully curated selection of around 600 Canarian wines, many characterized by the volcanic terroir of the region.
One of the most captivating aspects of the shop is its array of natural and low-intervention wines, including pet-nats (naturally sparkling wines) and other fresh varieties. During our stay in Tenerife, we visited the vinoteca three times, sampling different natural wines from the islands—a highly recommended experience for any wine enthusiast.
In addition to wine, Vinoteca Con Pasión offers a selection of local products such as olive oils, cheeses, fig coffee, and preserves. These complement the wines perfectly, allowing visitors to take home a taste of the Canary Islands.
From Restaurant to Vinoteca
The wine shop is an extension of Jacinto’s neighboring restaurant, which he and his partner opened seven years ago. Originally intended as a wine bar with a small offering of cheese and ham, the success of Canarian wines led the team to expand, acquiring the adjacent property and dedicating it to wine sales and tastings.
Today, the two establishments sit side by side: the vinoteca as a wine specialty shop and the restaurant offering a broader gastronomic experience. Visitors can purchase any wine in the vinoteca and enjoy it at the restaurant for a modest corkage fee of €6—a perfect way to pair local wines with a delicious meal.
Personalized Tastings: The Star Experience
For those seeking a unique experience, Jacinto organizes personalized wine tastings, one of the standout features of Vinoteca Con Pasión. These tastings cater to both curious beginners and seasoned wine lovers, offering more than just a sampling—they provide a journey through the history and flavors of the Canary Islands.
Tasting Options Include:
- Basic Tastings: A great introduction, featuring 4–5 wines accompanied by Jacinto’s stories and insights. Prices start at just €25 per person, depending on the selection.
- Premium Tastings: For the true connoisseurs, these tastings feature high-end wines curated by Jacinto, with prices varying by the chosen wines.
- Private Experiences: The intimate cellar can host private events for 10–14 people. For €25 per person, guests enjoy a tailored tasting experience, with optional tapas, meals, or even the ability to bring their own wines for a small corkage fee.
What Makes Vinoteca Con Pasión Special?
Jacinto’s dedication to Canarian wines goes beyond offering products. With in-depth knowledge of local vineyards and winemakers, he personally selects each wine, visiting wineries and building close relationships with producers. “Almost every wine in Vinoteca Con Pasión comes from a winery we’ve visited. This allows us to share the story behind every bottle,” Jacinto explains.
Among the standout wineries featured is Suertes del Marqués, a leader in Canarian wine. Their offerings, crafted in the La Orotava Valley, showcase the volcanic essence and richness of native grapes such as Listán Negro, Listán Blanco, and Malvasía Volcánica. These grapes, combined with volcanic soil and a unique climate, produce wines with fresh acidity, mineral notes, and saline touches—perfect for adventurous palates.
Moreover, Vinoteca Con Pasión is one of the few carbon-neutral certified shops in the region, underscoring its commitment to sustainability and preserving the Canarian wine legacy.
The Rise of Canary Wines
Jacinto has been a trailblazer in promoting Canarian wines and their traditional methods of production over more commercial options. “More and more, tourists are looking for authenticity—wines that truly reflect the character of the islands,” he notes. The vinoteca has become a hub for local producers and tourists alike, fostering appreciation for Canarian wine in the region.
In 2023, Jacinto was honored as a Canary Wine Ambassador by Canary Wine, a recognition he proudly embraces, reaffirming his commitment to showcasing the richness of Canarian viticulture.
What’s Next for Vinoteca Con Pasión?
Looking to the future, Jacinto dreams of continuing to promote Canarian wines while traveling to learn about wines from other regions, always with the goal of bringing new ideas to his vinoteca. His long-term vision is to preserve the authenticity of his shop and further support local producers, ensuring the Canarian wine heritage thrives.
If you’re planning a trip to Tenerife, give a check to our Tenerife travel guide, and don’t miss the chance to visit Vinoteca Con Pasión. Whether for a tasting, a private event, or simply to discover an exquisite Canarian wine, this vinoteca offers an experience brimming with authenticity, a profound love for the land, and a commitment to sustainability.
Check out our complete guide on What to Do in Tenerife for more details.
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