When you think of Portugal, you might think of sweet port rather than wine. Nevertheless, Portugal is not to be underestimated when it comes to excellent wines, which are increasingly being awarded in international wine competitions. The wines of the Algarve and Alentejo are regularly part of this list of honour.
“Excavations have been found that show that wine was widespread in the Algarve as early as Roman times. This is no coincidence, as the soil and sunny climate are ideal for harvesting beautiful, tasty grapes. »
Old vine stumps
Excavations have been found that show that wine was widespread in the Algarve as early as Roman times. This is no coincidence, as the soil and sunny climate are ideal for harvesting beautiful, tasty grapes.
In the 80s of the last century, tourism came along, which led to the fact that many vineyards had to give way to the construction of golf courses, resorts and citrus groves. The vineyards that still existed were neglected, often because the descendants worked in tourism.
If you are near Lagoa, you will see land on the left and right with old vine stumps, some of which are still budding in spring.
New Entrepreneurs
Fortunately, many of these ancient orchards have been saved from extinction. Investors have rediscovered the region and have the means to use modern techniques to elevate the taste of the grapes to an even higher level. Renowned oenologists are also recruited to create the most refined wine aromas.
An example of such an investor is the famous singer Cliff Richard, who revived a large vineyard in Guia. The name of the winery is ‘Adega do Cantor’.
In the last 15 years, many vineyards have been added and a large number of vineyards have been restored. More and more wine connoisseurs are choosing Portugal as a destination to taste or grow the wine made from special autochthonous grape varieties.
Portugal, an exceptional wine country
There are twelve wine regions in Portugal. One of the most famous is the Vinho Verde. This is located in the green north of Portugal, where it rains a lot. The Douro, with its beautiful landscape, is also a classic among wine regions. It is one of the oldest demarcated wine regions in the world. Located closer to the Algarve, the Alentejo is an interesting Portuguese wine supplier. This region has been on the rise in recent years with harmonious wines such as Borba and Reguengos. Just like the Alentejo, the Algarve is gaining more and more fans in the wine world.
Visit the vineyards of the Algarve and Alentejo
Tavira, Lagoa, Portimão and Lagos are the four wine regions of the Algarve. To get to know the wine culture better, you can visit several wineries. You will usually be given a guided tour of the vines and in the wine cellars. In addition, during the tour, the guide will explain how the wine is made, often paying special attention to the winemaking process. Of course, you will be able to taste wine at the end of the tour.
Some wineries you can visit are Quinta da Penina near Portimão, Quinta do Francês near Silves, Quinta dos Vales near Estombar and Monte da Casteleja near Faro. A special owner has the winery Adego do Cantor near Albufeira. It belongs to the British singer Cliff Richard, who, together with his business partners, has won several awards in recent years with the wine « Vida Nova ».
You can also buy wine directly from most wineries. Wines from the Algarve can also be found in the local supermarkets. Even better represented are the wines from the Alentejo. There are a large number of wine producers here, producing mainly red wines, but also good white wines. To name just a few that are worth visiting: ‘Herdade da Malhadinha Nova, Herdade dos Grous or Herdade do Sobroso.
Some of the homes on offer at Divine Home overlook such a lush vineyard. Our staff can provide excellent support in finding a house or holiday home that meets all your needs.
