In the heart of Tenerife, the oldest craft beer factory in Spain, TACOA, is making waves in the world of beer enthusiasts. Based in El Sauzal, this hidden gem has been crafting artisanal beers since it first opened in June 2001, earning the prestigious title of the first microbrewery and brew restaurant, not only in the Canary Islands but in Spain.
What sets TACOA apart is its dedication to small-scale production, allowing the brewers to focus almost exclusively on quality. Every minute detail is carefully tended to during the brewing process, using high-quality ingredients such as local malts, fresh hops, and meticulously selected yeasts. The result? Unique flavours and aromas that are captivating the hearts of beer aficionados.
According to Salón Gourmets, Europe's leading fair for quality food and beverages, and a global reference, TACOA has become Spain's oldest craft beer factory. Since its inception, TACOA has passionately worked towards creating and offering a range of high-quality artisanal beers, amassing over 200 points of sale across the islands.
Notably, TACOA made history in September 2014, breaking the European record for altitude brewing by crafting a beer at 2,150 metres above sea level in the foothills of Mount Teide. This exceptional brew, made with Tajinaste honey, was aptly named "El Teide National Park." Adding to its accolades, the Tenerife-based brewery proudly secured three international medals in 2021, 2022, and 2023.
The fascinating world of beer is marked by two undeniable protagonists: craft beer and industrial beer. These labels not only signify differences in the brewing process but also represent entirely distinct philosophies and values in production.
At the core of this distinction lies the scale of production. Craft breweries, defined by their commitment to quality and meticulous attention to detail, operate independently and brew in smaller batches. This limited scale allows unparalleled control over the process, emphasizing creativity and experimentation.
On the other hand, industrial beers are churned out in highly automated facilities, primarily geared towards mass production to meet overwhelming demand. This often leads to standardization and uniformity in their products, although exceptions always exist.
In terms of ingredients, craft breweries are renowned for using selected malts, fresh hops, and specific yeasts for each beer style. Quality is non-negotiable, and craft brewers often experiment with local and unique ingredients to create exceptional flavours and aromas.
Craft beer shines with its wide variety of styles and flavours. Fuelled by a creative spirit, craft brewers eagerly explore new possibilities, offering exclusive and limited-edition beers that defy expectations. TACOA, with its rich history and commitment to quality, stands as a testament to the thriving craft beer scene in Tenerife and Spain at large. We’ll drink to that!
