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  4. 10 Best Local Wines in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Sommelier
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10 Best Local Wines in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Sommelier

The Philippines may not be one of the first countries that come to mind when you think about wine, perhaps because there's an abundance of wines from more well-known wine-producing countries in the market. But we have a wide range of spirits sourced from locally-grown material. These local wine brands can be easily found in supermarkets, along with roadside stalls, and even in your local palengke

 

Given that wine grapes aren't naturally available in the country, our version is often made from native resources like fruits, coffee, and even cacao. Local wines may also reflect the region's history and culture, like, for example, the local wines from Ilocos Norte or Batangas. In this article, we will take you on a tour of homegrown wines and our recommended top 10 local wines in the Philippines.  

Last updated 09/01/2023
Raymund S. Manzanillo
Expert
Wine Professional With WSET Level 3 Certification
Raymund S. Manzanillo

Raymund is currently the chief sommelier who sources and evaluates wines for the portfolio of La Peregrina Filipina, a Philippine-based wine import company. He is a proponent of wine as culture, art, a lifestyle, and an all-important element in the world of gastronomy.

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Justine Cuizon
Guide
Writer and Editor
Justine Cuizon

Justine joined mybest in 2020. She gravitates toward writing all things food-related and how they connect people. Aside from writing, she’s made it a point to hunt for the perfect croissant and chocolate chip cookie.

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The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.

Table of Contents

How do Local Wines Differ From International Wines?

How do Local Wines Differ From International Wines?

Local wines in the Philippines often differ in taste from international wines due to several factors:


  1. Fruit Varieties: Local wines in the Philippines are predominantly fruit wines made from mango, pineapple, coconut, bignay, and duhat. These fruits impart distinct flavors unique to the region, resulting in wines with tropical, sweet, tart, or tangy profiles. In contrast, international wines are typically made from grape varieties that offer a wider range of flavor profiles, including fruity, floral, earthy, or oaky notes.
  2. Winemaking Techniques: Local winemaking traditions and techniques in the Philippines may differ from those used internationally. The fermentation, aging, and blending methods employed can impact the flavor, body, and structure of the wines. International wines often follow established winemaking practices that may vary across different wine-producing regions.
  3. Cultural Preferences: Local wines are often tailored to suit the preferences and tastes of the local market. Filipino consumers may have a preference for sweeter or fruitier wines, which can influence the production and flavor profiles of local wines. International wines, on the other hand, cater to various global markets and follow different stylistic traditions.
Raymund S. Manzanillo
Wine Professional With WSET Level 3 Certification
Raymund S. Manzanillo

The Philippines' tropical climate and diverse terroir also contribute to the unique characteristics of local wines. The warm weather and fertile soils influence the flavors and aromas of the fruits used in winemaking. International wines, on the other hand, reflect the specific terroir of their respective regions, which can vary greatly from the Philippines.

How to Choose Local Wine - Buying Guide

Trying out local wines is definitely exciting for people with adventurous palates. To get you started, here's guide of the flavors you can expect from the different kinds of source materials used in local wines.  

1

Pick Bugnay and Tuba Wine if You’re Looking for Something Bold and Strong

Bugnay and tuba wine are some of the most prominent local wines. These choices provide bold options for those who appreciate distinctive and powerful flavors in their wine.

Bugnay Wine From the CAR Region Has a Strong and Bold Taste

Bugnay Wine From the CAR Region Has a Strong and Bold Taste

This local wine typically has a deep red color and a fruity, tart flavor. It’s known for its strong tannins and acidity, which can make it quite bold and robust. Moreover, it’s often described as having a unique taste that’s both sweet and sour, which is why it’s often compared to red wine.


It typically has an ABV ranging from 10% to 14%, making it ideal for more seasoned wine drinkers. However, it's worth noting that the alcohol content can vary depending on the specific production methods and the winemaker's preferences.

Raymund S. Manzanillo
Wine Professional With WSET Level 3 Certification
Raymund S. Manzanillo
Not all local wines in the Philippines are strong! While some local wines may have higher alcohol content, there are also varieties that are sweet, mellow, and refreshing. The sweetness, acidity, and flavor profiles can vary depending on the fruit used and the winemaking process. It's important to note that the alcohol content and taste characteristics of local wines can vary widely, offering a range of options to suit different preferences.

Tuba Wine Is Tangy and Refreshing

Tuba Wine Is Tangy and Refreshing

Tuba is a traditional Filipino wine made from the sap of coconut palm trees. It's produced in various regions, with lots of coconut palm trees, such as Batangas, Quezon, and Laguna in Luzon, as well as in parts of Visayas and Mindanao. Production and consumption of tuba are deeply ingrained in the local culture of these regions.


It is a clear or slightly cloudy beverage with a mildly sweet and tangy flavor; it is not as potent as grape wines and has a distinctly tropical flavor. Plus, it has a low ABV compared to other wines, ranging from 4% to 6%. Its fermentation process is relatively short, which results in a lower alcohol content. However, it can be distilled to produce a higher alcohol content, which is "Lambanog."

2

Go for Fruit Wines If You’re Looking for Something Sweet

Go for Fruit Wines If You’re Looking for Something Sweet

Fruit wines are made from various fruits other than grapes, such as berries, apples, peaches, or even tropical fruits. The taste of fruit wines can vary widely depending on the fruit used. They tend to have a fruit-forward flavor profile, ranging from sweet to tart, depending on the fruit's natural sweetness and acidity.


Generally, fruit wines have an ABV ranging from 7% to 14%, although some varieties may have higher or lower alcohol content. Some popular fruits used in the production of Filipino wines include:


  • Mango: one of the most common fruit wines in the Philippines. It is made from ripe mangoes and has a sweet and tropical flavor.

  • Pineapple: another popular choice. It is made from fermented pineapple juice and has a refreshing taste with a hint of acidity.

  • Duhat: made from the fruit of the duhat tree, also known as Java plum or black plum. It has a deep purple color and a sweet and tangy flavor.

  • Guyabano: also known as soursop. It has a unique taste that's often described as a combination of strawberry and pineapple.

  • Strawberry: In cooler parts of the Philippines, such as the mountainous regions of Benguet, strawberry wine is produced. It has a sweet and tangy flavor and is often enjoyed as a dessert wine.

Raymund S. Manzanillo
Wine Professional With WSET Level 3 Certification
Raymund S. Manzanillo
Mango and pineapple wines can be fruity and refreshing with a balance of sweetness and acidity. Additionally, there are dessert wines or late harvest wines made from certain fruits that have a sweeter and more concentrated flavor.
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10 Best Local Wines to Buy Online

The products we introduce below were carefully curated by the mybest team, from the best-sellers of E-commerce sites like Lazada, and using the points mentioned in our detailed and thoroughly researched buying guide.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
Details
Source Material
Region
ABV
Volume
1

Saint Ambrose

Bignay Wine

Saint Ambrose Bignay Wine 1

₱360

Low Mid

A Refreshing Berry Wine Perfect for Pairing With Meat Dishes

Bugnay

San Pablo, Laguna

11.5%

750 mL

2

Vino Isla

Tropical Mango Wine

Vino Isla Tropical Mango Wine 1

₱1,149

High

A Light-Bodied Wine Bursting With the Sweetness of Philippine Mangoes

Mango

Not Indicated

11%

750 mL

3

Lakang Hari

Basi Wine

Lakang Hari Basi Wine 1

₱459

Mid

Traditional Sugarcane Wine Made With a Balanced Acidity and Sweetness

Sugarcane

Luzon

12%

400 mL

4

Dielle's Apiary and Meadery

Melomel Black Plum Wine

Dielle's Apiary and Meadery Melomel Black Plum Wine 1

₱369

Low Mid

Features a Unique Winemaking Approach to Local Wines

Duhat

Muntinlupa

Not Indicated

375

5

Proudly Promdi

Bielma Bugnay Fruit Wine

Proudly Promdi Bielma Bugnay Fruit Wine 1

₱450

Mid

A Local Alternative for Making Sangria

Bugnay

Adams, Ilocos Norte

14%

450, 750 mL

6

Vino Isla

Tropical Coconut Wine

Vino Isla Tropical Coconut Wine 1

₱849

High Mid

Experience Tropical Paradise With Coconut Wine

Coconut

Not Indicated

11%

750 mL

7

Vin de Pays

Guyabano Wine

Vin de Pays Guyabano Wine 1

₱849

High Mid

Made using Traditional Winemaking Methods

Guyabano

Not Indicated

11%

750 mL

8

Proudly Promdi

Pedronan Tapuey

Proudly Promdi Pedronan Tapuey 1

₱620

Mid

A Rich and Velvety Rice Wine With Caramel Notes

Rice

Adams, Ilocos Norte

17%

330, 750 mL

9

Destileria Limtauco

Dragon Fire

Destileria Limtauco Dragon Fire 1

₱629

Mid

A Sweet and Vibrant Wine With an Added Kick

Dragon Fruit

Ilocos

36%

750 mL

10

Don Conrado Paradise Wine

Strawberry Wine

Don Conrado Paradise Wine Strawberry Wine 1

₱320

Low Mid

A Fruity Wine Made With Baguio Strawberries

Strawberry

Baguio

12%

750 mL

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Saint AmbroseBignay Wine

Bignay Wine 1
Source:winesndrinks.com
Reference price
₱360
Low Mid
Reference price
₱360
Low Mid

A Refreshing Berry Wine Perfect for Pairing With Meat Dishes

Looking to quench your thirst with something truly refreshing? Try Bugnay wine! Known as the currant tree, Bugnay resembles the tang of cranberries when unripe and acai berries when ripe. This remarkable fruit traces back to San Pablo Laguna, where the brand sources their berries. 


With its deep, red wine color, bugnay reminds you of classic red wine. Its medium body also pairs well with hearty, meat-based dishes like kaldereta. If you’re looking for an unconventional wine for gatherings or date nights, let this be it!

Source MaterialBugnay
RegionSan Pablo, Laguna
ABV11.5%
Volume750 mL
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No.2

Vino IslaTropical Mango Wine

Reference price
₱1,149
High

A Light-Bodied Wine Bursting With the Sweetness of Philippine Mangoes

The Philippines is known for its ripe, luscious mangoes, and now Vino Isla has captured its sweetness in a bottle! This tropical mango wine is made from mangoes grown in volcanic soil. Volcanic soil has been known to be beneficial for farming, making this wine taste delicious. It’s the perfect drink for anyone who is not fond of robust wines. 


This wine is one of the brand’s bestsellers, and for good reason. It’s great as a dessert drink because of its light body and sweet, fruity notes. This also makes it the ideal companion for hot summers or a delightful afternoon refresher!

Source MaterialMango
RegionNot Indicated
ABV11%
Volume750 mL
No.3

Lakang HariBasi Wine

Reference price
₱459
Mid

Traditional Sugarcane Wine Made With a Balanced Acidity and Sweetness

Lakang Hari takes you on a journey into the Philippines’ heritage. Made from naturally fermented muscovado derived from Luzon sugarcanes, it is noted to have a balanced acidity and a refreshingly sweet aftertaste. This makes it great for any occasionーas an afternoon drink or a pre-game drink.


Its packaging, which features braided abaca, also embodies Filipino culture and craftsmanship. It also makes an excellent pasalubong, gift for friends, special occasions, or a great housewarming gift!
Source MaterialSugarcane
RegionLuzon
ABV12%
Volume400 mL
No.4

Dielle's Apiary and MeaderyMelomel Black Plum Wine

Reference price
₱369
Low Mid

Features a Unique Winemaking Approach to Local Wines

Unlike other local wine brands, Dielle stands out for using mead as their wine’s base. Mead is an alcoholic beverage made by fermenting honey and water. Meanwhile, melomel pertains to mead that contains fruit, which is what they name their drinks. This unique take could be attributed to their apiary or bee farm, where they source the honey to produce their wines. 


Their Duhat or plum wine offers a hint of sweetness that’s slightly refreshing, making it great for cutting through rich and greasy foods. Aside from the black plum wine, they also offer a variety of other melomels such as mangosteen and passionfruit.

Source MaterialDuhat
RegionMuntinlupa
ABVNot Indicated
Volume375
No.5

Proudly PromdiBielma Bugnay Fruit Wine

Reference price
₱450
Mid

A Local Alternative for Making Sangria

If you’re looking for the closest thing to red wine, then consider this bugnay wine. Dr. Bielma’s Bugnay wine offers a light-bodied taste profile with floral notes, similar to red wines. It also boasts the right blend of tartness, acidity, and natural sweetness that’s perfect for making sangria! 

Crafted in Adams, Ilocos Norte, the bugnay berries are handpicked and undergo seasonal transformation. This results in limited production of just three batches annually. Thus, you can be sure that each bottle embodies their meticulous craftsmanship!
Source MaterialBugnay
RegionAdams, Ilocos Norte
ABV14%
Volume450, 750 mL
Reference price
₱849
High Mid

Experience Tropical Paradise With Coconut Wine

Fond of seafood? Try pairing it with coconut wine! Vino Isla’s coconut wine is crafted from the purest coconut nectar. It is then fermented into beloved tuba where it offers a smooth and vibrant taste that can reduce the lansa factor in dishes like sugpo or inihaw na bangus


Its crisp and refreshing aftertaste also makes it an ideal companion for outdoor barbecues or beach outings. Additionally, this wine only contains 11% ABV, making it easy to drink even for those non-alcoholic drinkers.

Source MaterialCoconut
RegionNot Indicated
ABV11%
Volume750 mL
No.7

Vin de PaysGuyabano Wine

Guyabano Wine 1
Source:vindepays.ph
Reference price
₱849
High Mid
Reference price
₱849
High Mid

Made using Traditional Winemaking Methods

Although the Philippines isn’t known for producing grape wines, Vin de Pays has made it their mission to create wine that embodies Filipino agriculture and customs. Using local fruits, the brand pays tribute to traditional winemaking, embracing the wisdom of minimal intervention and natural processes.

Their guyabano wine is made from fermented guyabano, muscovado, tuba, and purified water. Afterward it is aged before being bottled. This results in a wine with contrasting citrus notes and creamy texture that’s perfect for pairing with creamy dishes.
Source MaterialGuyabano
RegionNot Indicated
ABV11%
Volume750 mL
No.8

Proudly PromdiPedronan Tapuey

Reference price
₱620
Mid
Reference price
₱620
Mid

A Rich and Velvety Rice Wine With Caramel Notes

If you’re looking for something richer than fruit wines, try tapuey. Tapuey or rice wine is often drunk during special occasions and rituals in the northern provinces of the Philippines. And this particular brand is made in small batches following traditional practices

It uses indigenous yeast from Baguio where it is fermented in clay jars, resulting in a wine that tastes of brown sugar and caramel. Its consistency is rather syrupy and ends into a smooth finish that some people say is similar to port wine!
Source MaterialRice
RegionAdams, Ilocos Norte
ABV17%
Volume330, 750 mL
No.9

Destileria LimtaucoDragon Fire

Reference price
₱629
Mid
Reference price
₱629
Mid

A Sweet and Vibrant Wine With an Added Kick

Just like its name, this wine is sure to set your tastebuds on fire. Dragon Fire wine is made from the meat of 100% red dragon fruit. This is what gives it that mesmerizing magenta hue. It is characterized by a gentle sweetness and subtle tartness that lingers on the palate.


Don’t be fooled by its appearance though, as this wine can pack quite the punch. Each bottle contains 36% ABV for that added kick, so this might not be suitable for non-alcoholic drinkers. However, if you’re looking for something that packs a stronger punch, this might be it!

Source MaterialDragon Fruit
RegionIlocos
ABV36%
Volume750 mL
No.10

Don Conrado Paradise WineStrawberry Wine

Reference price
₱320
Low Mid

A Fruity Wine Made With Baguio Strawberries

You can't talk of Baguio without mentioning strawberries, one of the fruits that grow in abundance there. This fruit is versatile and often used in baking or simply for dipping in condensada. But thanks to innovative winemakers in the region, we can now get to enjoy strawberries in liquor form, like this one from Don Conrado!


This export-quality wine is made from organic strawberries and is great for people who would like a drink that's both refreshing and heart-healthy. And because it's naturally sweet, you can use it for purposes other than drinking. You can incorporate it into your baking recipes or just mix it with milk, jams, or chocolate for that juicy strawberry blast! 

Source MaterialStrawberry
RegionBaguio
ABV12%
Volume750 mL

How to Pair Your Wine With Staple Filipino Dishes

How to Pair Your Wine With Staple Filipino Dishes
Bugnay wine pairs well with strong and flavorful dishes. This includes grilled meats, spicy adobo, or even traditional Filipino dishes like Pinakbet (vegetable stew), Bagnet (crispy pork belly), and sisig. The wine's tartness and acidity can help cut through the richness and enhance the flavors of these dishes, creating a harmonious balance.

Tuba’s sweet and slightly sour taste pairs nicely with seafood dishes, particularly grilled or steamed fish, kinilaw, and snacks like adobong mani, salted fish, and crispy dilis. The slight sourness of tuba complements the seafood’s natural sweetness and the savory and garlicky flavors of the peanuts, creating a delightful contrast.


Fruit wines, in general, tend to pair well with light and refreshing foods. Consider pairing mango with tokwa't baboy to complement the dish’s savory flavors and create a refreshing and sweet contrast. You could also pair pineapple wine with tropical fruit salads, grilled chicken or fish with fruit salsas, or light and creamy desserts like panna cotta or fruit tarts. 

Frequently Answered Questions by Raymund S. Manzanillo

Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by wine professional Raymund S. Manzanillo.

How Do Local Wines Taste? Are They Bolder, More Potent Than Red Or White Wines?

Overall, local wines like bugnay, tuba, and fruit wines can offer unique and diverse flavor experiences. While they may not be as potent as some red or white grape wines, they often have distinctive characteristics that reflect the local ingredients and traditional winemaking techniques.

Are Local Wines More Suitable for the More Experienced Wine Drinkers?

Local wines like bugnay and tuba are not necessarily more suitable for experienced wine drinkers. In fact, they can be enjoyed by both novice and experienced wine enthusiasts. Here are some reasons to consider:


1. Accessibility: Bugnay and tuba wines often have unique and distinct flavors that can be appreciated by anyone interested in exploring different taste profiles. Their flavors can be intriguing and enjoyable for both experienced wine drinkers and those new to wine.


2. Cultural Experience: Bugnay and tuba wines are often deeply rooted in local traditions and cultures. Trying these wines can be a way to immerse oneself in the local customs and gain a deeper understanding of the regions where they are produced. This cultural aspect can be appreciated by anyone, regardless of their level of wine expertise.


3. Varied Palates: Wine preferences are highly subjective, and what one person may enjoy, another may not. Experienced wine drinkers may have a broader palate and be more accustomed to tasting different wine styles, but that doesn't mean bugnay and tuba wines are exclusively for them. These local wines offer unique flavors and characteristics that can be appreciated by anyone with an open mind and a curiosity for exploring new tastes.


Basically, local wines like bugnay and tuba are not limited to experienced wine drinkers. They can be enjoyed by individuals of all levels of wine expertise who are interested in discovering new flavors, cultural experiences, and expanding their wine knowledge.

How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations

Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.

Top 5 Local Wines

No. 1: Saint AmbroseBignay Wine

No. 2: Vino IslaTropical Mango Wine

No. 3: Lakang HariBasi Wine

No. 4: Dielle's Apiary and MeaderyMelomel Black Plum Wine

No. 5: Proudly PromdiBielma Bugnay Fruit Wine

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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