The Algarve in the very south of Portugal is the only demarcated District in Portugal that does not produce a variety of white wines along with its red wine. The red wines tend to be full-bodied, a fruity rich flavour, low acidity, and containing a high alcohol level. Of late there has been a renewal of interest and several smaller private vineyards have been created and are marketing their own labels.
There has recently been a resurgence of interest in the smaller privately owned vineyards to commercialise their production. One such producer is the Vida Nova and Onda Nova label from a vineyard Adega do Cantor owned by the famous singer, Sir Cliff Richard.
The Mediterranean climate and the low temperature fluctuations, the region as a promising growing area.
Predominantly red wines are from the grapes Negra Mole, and Periquita Monvedro produced.
There are ruby-colored, velvety light wines whose alcohol content exceeds the acidity. Even some white wines and rosé wines, dessert wines and grape varieties of Crato Branco and Moscatel Branco are produced.
Dominant Grapes: Negra Mole, Monvedro, Trincadeira, Arinto, Síria, Tamarez.
- Lagoa (D.O.C)
This region covers the municipalities of both Albufeira and Lagoa. The soft sandy soil and warm climate provides a rich distinct flavour. The red wines are ruby-colored which develop with age and are easy to drink. The white wine is soft and full-bodied. Both have high alcohol content. - Lagos (D.O.C)
This region covers the municipalities of Aljezur, Lagos and Sagres. The red wine is smooth and fruity with low acidity level. The white wine is lemon-straw in colour and tends to be full-bodied. - Portimão (D.O.C)
The red wine is light, smooth with low acidity and high alcohol content. The white wine is straw-colored with a soft and rich aromatic flavour. - Tavira (D.O.C)
This region covers the municipalities of Castro Marim, Faro, Olhão, São Brás de Alportel, Tavira and Vila Real de Santo António. The red wine is soft, pale-coloured and with a fruity aroma. The white wine is straw-colored, smooth and full-bodied.
The state has a plot of land in the district of Lagoa available, the project now can be implemented. The next step for the establishment of an administration, alternately by the two wineries is sought.
The investment by the Adega of Lagoa and Lagos will be in proportion to the quantity supplied grapes. Based on average figures of the last four years would be the shares of the new winery to Lagoa 70% and to Lagos 30%.
According to José Pina, chairman of the Adega Lagoa, aims to strengthen innovation, including the production of a new wine brand can mean.