Discover Azores Wine Tasting
Look, I’ve been to a lot of places. Seen a lot of vineyards. But nothing quite prepares you for the Azores. These islands are like a green, misty dream, with cliffs and mountains so steep they look like they might topple over. And then, smack dab in the middle of all this natural wonder, you find vineyards. Yeah, you read that right. Vineyards. In the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, on volcanic islands.
Forget Porto and Douro for a second. Those are for the wine magazines and the overhyped critics. The Azores are where it’s at for an explorer looking for the real edge. These wines have a terroir their own, eight million years in the making. They’ve got this crazy mineral thing going on, probably from all the volcanic activity, and an freshness that’ll slap you awake. It’s like drinking an early morning Atlantic breeze.
So, if you’re tired of the same old dusty wine and want something real, something with character, head over to the Azores. Four hours from Boston or New York, closer than Hawaii is to the West Coast. It’s not just about the wine, though. It’s about the whole dang experience. The food, the people, the landscape – it all comes together in a glass. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
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The Unique Terroir of Azores Wines
The Azores’ wine region is unlike any other in the world. The most famous is the UNESCO World Heritage site of Paisagem da Cultura da Vinha da Ilha do Pico. Vines grow in small, walled enclosures called currais, built from volcanic rock. Thanks to these sturdy walls, harsh Atlantic gusts and salt-laden air can’t touch these protected vines.
These volcanic soils lend a particular character to the wine, faintly perfumed with a hint of ocean air. A testament to the region’s exceptional quality, Azorean wines have captivated palates for centuries. Czar Nicholas II is said to have been a fan and Bolsheviks savored the last remnants of his cellar before the revolution swept away the finer things in life. There’s a reason why wines from this region are impossible to replicate elsewhere – the rich soil, time-tested techniques, and extraordinary local grapes imbue each bottle with its sense of place.
Top Producers in Pico Island and Beyond
Azores Wine Company
The Azores Wine Company is a small family-owned winery at the forefront of the islands’ wine renaissance. At the forefront of innovation, this winery born from the passion of António Maçanita, Filipe Rocha, and Paulo Machado preserves the essence of Portugal’s native grapes, offering fresh air to the industry.
From the tasting room, gaze at the rolling vineyards and ocean views stretching forever. Visitors can choose from several tasting experiences, including:
Salt & Spices: A tasting of three wines paired with local cheeses.
Varietals Flight: Explore the unique Azorean grape varieties.
A Kind of Magic: An in-depth tasting experience with food pairings.
Cooperativa Vitivinicola PicoWines
For a taste of Azorean winemaking history, visit the Cooperativa Vitivinicola PicoWines . Back in 1949, a game-changing cooperative was born, helping safeguard the island’s rich winemaking heritage through some challenging times.
Across the region, 250 passionate grape growers and winemakers trust PicoWines to bring their craft to life. Take a step into their state-of-the-art facilities and indulge in a wine-tasting experience featuring some of their flagship labels: Frei Gigante, known for its bold flavors; Terras da Lava, praised for its velvety smoothness; and Terroir Vulcânico, a true masterclass in complexity. These local wines, with their unique flavors derived from the islands’ volcanic soils, offer a distinct and memorable tasting experience.
Within the coveted Quinta da Jardinete lies a piece of old-world luxury, evoking a deep sense of tradition.
At the Quinta da Jardinete, a unique sense of tranquility unfolds. You can taste the spirit of adventure in every bottle, courtesy of Azorean winemakers who refuse to play it safe. The owners imported vines from Europe and began experimenting with grapes and wines in the early 2000s. Their first wines were produced in 2005, and they’ve been growing and innovating ever since.
Wine country beckons! Take a tour of the rolling vineyards, learn the story behind the bottle, and treat your taste buds to a parade of expertly crafted wines that reflect the winemakers’ skill and creativity. Step into the winery and you’ll find a realm of possibilities, from no-frills tastings to elaborate affairs that pair wine with gourmet cuisine, each one carefully crafted to delight your senses and broaden your wine knowledge. Book a visit to Quinta da Jardinete and enjoy wine tastings that offer a deep dive into the local wine culture.
Adega do Vulcão: Italian wine flair meets the mid-Atlantic’s best terroir
If you’re seeking a truly unique wine experience, Adega do Vulcão is a must-visit. This innovative winery harnesses the power of the Azores’ volcanic terroir to create extraordinary wines. Founded by a Florentine couple, Adega do Vulcão is a testament to the islands’ captivating allure.
Their vineyards are nestled on the volcanic landscapes of Faial and Pico, where the rich, mineral-laden soil imparts distinctive character to the grapes. Adega do Vulcão’s commitment to sustainable practices and their collaboration with renowned winemaker Alberto Antonini result in wines that are both expressive and terroir-driven.
A marriage of Tuscan passion and Atlantic grit, Adega do Vulcão crafts wines as bold and complex as the volcanic soil they spring from. From the flagship Ameixâmbar, a blend of native grapes from Faial and Pico, to the complex and structured Vulcão Pé do Monte Riserva, each bottle tells a story of volcanic passion. Indulge in a tasting experience at their winery and discover the magic that unfolds when nature and winemaking artistry converge.
Unique Azorean Wine Varieties
The Azores introduces you to grape varieties you may have never encountered before. Some of the most notable include:
Arinto
What does Arinto wine taste like? Defini... More dos Açores: Not to be confused with mainland Arinto, this variety produces fresh, mineral-driven whites.Terrantez do Pico: An almost-extinct variety revived by passionate winemakers, known for its complexity and aging potential.
Verdelho: While also grown in Madeira, Azorean Verdelho has its own distinct character.
The Azores are particularly renowned for their white wine, which showcases the unique characteristics and historical significance of the region.
On these island soils, native grapes mingle with international varieties that have rooted themselves in the local climate, yielding wines with a singular island charm.
Beyond Wine: Complementing Your Azores Trip
While wines might undoubtedly be the star of the show for an oenophile such as myself, the Azores offers wine lovers an experience that goes beyond just what’s in your glass. The magic of these wines happens long before they reach your glass – it starts with the people and places that create them.
Exploring the Vineyards
One of the best ways for wine enthusiasts to appreciate Azorean wines is to walk among the vineyards. The Trilha de Vinhas in the Vinhas da Cria̤̣o Velha is a must-visit. Currais Рthose carefully constructed plots of land Рunfurl before your eyes as you make your way along this path winding through World Heritage-listed vineyards.
As you stroll through the vineyard, the harsh realities of grape cultivation hit home – every step, every bunch, every leaf is a testament to the region’s resolute farmers. The sight of vines emerging from black volcanic soil, with the deep blue Atlantic as a backdrop, is truly unforgettable.
We’re talking harsh, lunar-like landscapes amidst deep Atlantic blues and azure skies. A beautiful struggle and always low yields.
Pairing with Local Cuisine
Azorean wines shine brightest when paired with local cuisine. The islands’ gastronomy is heavily influenced by the sea, with fresh fish and seafood featuring prominently. Try pairing a crisp Arinto dos Açores with grilled limpets, a local delicacy.
Cheese aficionados will rejoice in the Azores, where rich cow’s milk cheeses reign supreme. The São Jorge cheese, with its slightly spicy flavor, pairs beautifully with the islands’ red wines.
Restaurants like Bar Caloura, which serve the day’s catch right over the sea, offer the perfect setting to savor these culinary delights alongside a glass of exceptional Azorean wine.
Planning Your Azorean Wine Adventure
To make the most of your Azores experience, consider these tips:
Time your visit: The best time for wine tasting is typically from June to October. This period offers the best weather and coincides with harvest season in late summer/early fall.
Choose your base: While Pico Island is the heart of Azorean wine production, you can find wineries on several islands. Shake things up by dividing your time between the islands – you’ll get to taste the distinctive flavors that set Azorean wines apart.
Book a winery tour: If you’re short on time or prefer a guided experience, several companies offer comprehensive wine tours. Leave the driving to us – we’ll handle the transportation, so you can soak up every drop of your tasting experience without a care in the world.
Rent a car: If you prefer to explore at your own pace, renting a car is a great option. Just remember that the islands can be hilly and some roads thin and winding, so drive carefully.
Recommended Wine Tours
For those who prefer a guided experience, here are some highly-rated tour options:
Full-day Wine-Focused Tour: This tour takes you to multiple wineries and includes tastings and lunch.
Full-day Food and Wine Tour: Perfect for those who want to experience the best of Azorean cuisine alongside its wines.
Private Half-day Tour: Ideal for those who want a more personalized experience or have limited time.
FAQs about Azores Wine Tasting
Do they make wine in the Azores?
Yes, the Azores have a long history of winemaking dating back to the 15th century. As you island-hop, you’ll discover an array of innovative wines, and it’s clear that Pico Island is where the magic happens, grape to bottle.
What is the wine tasting capital of the world?
While the Azores offer exceptional wine-tasting experiences, they’re not considered the wine-tasting capital of the world. That title is often given to regions like Bordeaux
What exactly is a Bordeaux? Bordeaux ble... More in France or Napa Valley in California. As aficionados scour the globe for the next big thing, they’re turning to the Azores, where volcanic soils and a balmy climate come together to create mesmerizing wines and absorbing tastings that linger long after the last sip.
What country is best for wine tasting?
Opinions vary wildly because what rocks someone’s world might barely register on someone else’s radar. Countries like France, Italy, Spain, and Portugal are all renowned for their wines and tasting experiences. The Azores, as part of Portugal, offer a unique wine-tasting experience that’s different from what you’ll find in more famous regions.
Where can I taste wine in Madeira?
While Madeira is another Portuguese archipelago known for its wines, this FAQ is about the wines of the Azores. In the Azores, you can taste wines on several islands, with Pico Island being the most renowned for its vineyards and wineries.
The Last Pour
To taste a white from the Azores is to taste the Atlantic breeze, kissed by volcanic fire. Wines that take root in volcanic soil and ride the Atlantic winds carry a sense of place that’s hard to shake. From walking through UNESCO World Heritage vineyards to sipping wines made from grapes you’ve never heard of before, every aspect of wine tasting in the Azores is an adventure.
Wine newcomers and aficionados alike, get ready to indulge in the exceptional wine scene the Azores has to offer. Imagine stepping into a scenery that stuns, a history that enriches, and a winemaking process that fascinates – that’s what happens when you venture beyond the glass. So raise a toast to the Azores – these remote islands might just produce your new favorite wine and you if you act fast, you might still get it on the ground floor.
