The Island's Brews
From historic lagers to craft newcomers
Dorada Especial
"La Original" - Extra Maduración
The flagship beer of Tenerife and arguably the most iconic Canarian brew. Dorada Especial is a premium lager with an extended maturation process, resulting in a smooth, balanced taste. Look for the distinctive Teide volcano silhouette on every bottle.
Brewed by Compañía Cervecera de Canarias (CCC) in Santa Cruz de Tenerife since 1939, it's the beer you'll find in every local bar, restaurant, and chiringuito across the island.
The Great Canarian Beer Rivalry
Dorada
Tenerife's Pride
Western Islands (Tenerife, La Gomera, El Hierro, La Palma)
Tropical
Gran Canaria's Favorite
Eastern Islands (Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura)
The Dorada Family
Dorada Especial
The classic. A smooth, easy-drinking lager with subtle malt sweetness. The "Extra Maduración" (extra maturation) gives it a refined character.
Dorada Sin
Non-alcoholic version that doesn't compromise on taste. Perfect for driving days or beach afternoons when you want to pace yourself.
Dorada Pilsen
A crisper, more hop-forward take on the classic. Slightly lighter body with more pronounced bitterness.
Tropical - The Eastern Islands' Choice
Tropical
Gran Canaria's answer to Dorada. A light, refreshing lager that's been quenching island thirst since 1924. Slightly lighter and crisper than Dorada.
Tropical Premium
A step up from the original with more body and character. Longer maturation for a smoother finish.
Craft Beer Scene
Tacoa Cerveza Artesana
Tenerife's most established craft brewery, based in El Sauzal. They brew a range of styles from IPAs to stouts, with some beers featuring local ingredients.
Nao Cervecería
A newer addition to the Tenerife craft scene, producing small-batch beers with creative flavors. Look for them at local craft beer bars.
La Quince (Limited)
While based in Madrid, this acclaimed Spanish craft brewery occasionally collaborates with Canarian brewers. Worth trying if you spot it.
Where to Find Local Beer
Any Local Chiringuito
Beach bars across the island serve ice-cold Dorada. Order "una Dorada" and enjoy it with some papas arrugadas.
Moon Palm-Mar
While known for Belgian beers (~40 varieties), they also stock local options. Great for comparing Canarian vs European styles.
The Vault Bar
Good selection of craft beers including local options. Live music and cocktails too.
HiperDino / Mercadona
All major supermarkets stock Dorada and Tropical at very reasonable prices. Pick up a pack for the apartment!
How to Order Like a Local
"Una caña, por favor"
Orders a small draft beer (~200ml). The most common way to order - keeps it cold and fresh in the heat.
"Una Dorada"
Specifically asks for Dorada. In Tenerife, if you just say "una cerveza" you'll likely get Dorada anyway!
"Un tercio"
Orders a 330ml bottle. Good for when you want a bit more than a caña.
"Una jarra"
Orders a large mug of draft beer (~500ml). For when you're really thirsty!
Fun Facts
The Teide Connection
Dorada's logo features Mount Teide, Spain's highest peak. The brewery is proud of its Tenerife roots and the mountain symbolizes that local identity.
Water Matters
Both Dorada and Tropical are brewed with local water, which contributes to their distinctive taste. The volcanic filtration gives the water unique mineral properties.
Island-Specific
You'll notice different beers dominate different islands. In Tenerife, it's Dorada. Cross to Gran Canaria and suddenly everyone drinks Tropical. The loyalty is real!
Perfect Pairing
The locals' favorite combination: A cold Dorada with papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) and mojo sauce. Simple perfection.