José de Sousa: the Alentejo winery where wine is still born in clay jars

04/08/2025In the heart of Reguengos de Monsaraz, José Maria da Fonseca is keeping an ancient heritage alive at Adega José de Sousa. With tours available all year round, you can witness the rare art of making wine in clay amphorae, just as the Romans did over two millennia ago.

It is one of the most unique wineries in the world and is located in the heart of the Alentejo, in Reguengos de Monsaraz. Adega José de Sousa, acquired by José Maria da Fonseca in 1986, represents the realisation of a long-held family dream: to produce wine on a historic property where winemaking has been recorded since 1878.
Today, those who visit this space can discover not only José de Sousa, José de Sousa Mayor and the prestigious J de José de Sousa wines, but also the Montado brand. The highlight is the so-called ‘pot cellar’, equipped with 114 clay amphorae – an ancient method of fermentation inherited from the Roman civilisation, which is practically extinct in the world.

The visit also includes the modern winery, with 44 stainless steel tanks and all the necessary technology for red and white wines, allowing visitors to understand how tradition and innovation intersect in the creation of excellent wines.

Visits take place daily, with times adjusted to the season: from April to October, at 11.00, 15.00 and 17.00; from November to March, at 11.00 and 15.00. The shop is also open every day. Although entry does not require an appointment, prior booking is recommended.

Adega José de Sousa is a living testimony to an ancestral knowledge that time has not erased – and an unmissable destination for wine and history lovers.