SAPO and APENO sign strategic partnership to boost wine tourism with Wine Tourism TV

SAPO, Portugal’s leading portal in the aggregation, curation and production of digital content, has established a new partnership with APENO – the Portuguese Wine Tourism Association – to integrate Wine Tourism TV into its content offer. This unprecedented collaboration aims to promote Portugal as a destination of excellence for oenophiles and travellers, through the world’s first television channel dedicated exclusively to wine tourism.
With this partnership, Wine Tourism TV’s programme will be available exclusively on SAPO, reinforcing the channel’s presence among millions of users. Interviews, reports, documentaries and original formats exploring wine regions, producers, grape varieties, wine tourism experiences and Portuguese wine culture will now be accessible to a much wider audience.

‘We are very happy with this partnership. Wine Tourism TV was launched in October last year with a diversified programme that includes a weekly newscast, two themed programmes and numerous videos from our partners and entities linked to wine and tourism in Portugal. Our audience was growing every day, but now, with the projection that SAPO offers us, we’re going to go much further. This is a huge boost. It’s going to be incredible. We are deeply grateful for the recognition and value that SAPO has placed on our work. The world of wine and wine tourism can only gain from this union,’ says Maria João de Almeida, president of APENO, emphasising the importance of this collaboration.
For Gil Moreira, General Director of SAPO, ‘the connection with a partner with the innovation and level of specialisation of APENO through Wine Tourism TV allows SAPO to provide its readers and users with differentiating content that is representative of the development capacity of the country’s brands across borders’.

Wine Tourism TV’s presence on SAPO represents a strategic platform for leveraging the visibility of the wine tourism sector on the national and international media scene, boosting regional development and creating new business opportunities for professionals in the sector. From now on, all the commercial management of Wine Tourism TV will be carried out by SAPO, guaranteeing a professional, structured and far-reaching approach to the Portuguese digital market.
SAPO continues to stand out as the most visited portal in Portugal, valuing differentiating content that praises the country’s heritage, authenticity and cultural diversity. In 2024, the site recorded a monthly average of more than three million users and exceeded 120 million pageviews per month, consolidating its status as a digital reference in the country.

Symington makes its debut in Vinho Verde in partnership with Anselmo Mendes

Symington presents Casa de Rodas Alvarinho 2023, the producer’s first Vinho Verde born out of a partnership with winemaker Anselmo Mendes. This Alvarinho, which marks the Symington family’s debut in the production of Vinho Verde – specifically from the Monção and Melgaço sub-region – also embodies one hundred years of winemaking heritage from the historic Casa de Rodas estate.
Casa de Rodas Alvarinho 2023, from the unique terroir of Monção and Melgaço, has a good body, with floral and fruity notes and a complex aroma with a very present mineral component. In the mouth it has good structure, vibrant acidity and a long finish. It’s a wine that pairs perfectly with seafood, fish and white meat dishes, as well as mature cheeses.
“We are very proud to be launching our first 100% Alvarinho wine, which comes entirely from this unique estate and is the result of a partnership we are very proud of, with one of Portugal’s most respected winemakers, Anselmo Mendes. This is a producer of excellence in this region and this wine, in particular, represents the realization of a partnership that will undoubtedly be a success,” says Rupert Symington, Chairman of the Board of Symington Family Estates.

For Anselmo Mendes, “the growth potential of Vinho Verde – in particular the sub-region of Monção and Melgaço – is very significant, both in Portugal and abroad. The partnership established with Symington in 2023 will be decisive in making this growth and recognition of the region a reality and, for this reason, I couldn’t be prouder of the launch of this first wine that we have produced together.”
Casa de Rodas Alvarinho 2023 is the result of manual harvesting, total destemming and gentle pressing of the whole berries in a pneumatic press. It went through a three-week fermentation process at temperatures between 14ºC and 22ºC and was aged on fine lees for six months.
Originally built in 1566, Casa de Rodas is a historic property in Monção, acquired by the Symington family in 2022. The property covers 27.5 hectares and has a long history in the Vinho Verde region. In the 1920s, it was the first to commercially export Alvarinho wine, with the grape variety indicated on the label.
Casa de Rodas Alvarinho 2023 is on sale in the main wine shops for a recommended retail price of €18.5.

AORP and Aveleda present unprecedented exhibition combining design and terroir

From 9 to 11 May, Alfândega do Porto will host the 3rd edition of Alfândega Joias, an event once again attended by the AORP – Associação de Ourivesaria e Relojoaria de Portugal. This year, the association’s participation takes on a new dimension with an unprecedented partnership with Aveleda, one of the most renowned wine houses in the Vinho Verde region.

Under the Portuguese Jewellery label, the AORP is presenting an exhibition that combines six national jewellery brands with six Aveleda wines – five white and one sparkling. The exhibition, conceptually curated, invites the public to discover affinities between jewellery design and the wine character of each reference, exploring themes such as origin, terroir, tradition and innovation.

Each of the six collaborations translates into an exclusive space where the jewellery dialogues with a wine: from the effervescent lightness of Espumante Bruto interpreted by Mel Jewel, to the expression of the Alvarinho grape variety in schist soils reflected in Amag’s creations, to the baroque elegance of Fernando Martins Pereira in tribute to Manoel Pedro Guedes wine.

The exhibition will be installed in the first space to the left of the Furnas Nascente entrance (Floor -1) of Alfândega do Porto and can be visited between 10am and 8pm on the three days of the event. The opening will include a special tasting on 9 May at 18h00.

For João Rothes, Secretary General of the AORP, this initiative ‘reinforces Portuguese Jewellery’s position as a platform for enhancing Portuguese jewellery, promoting dialogue with other creative worlds’. Filipa Albergaria, Aveleda’s brand manager, emphasises that ‘this journey between wine and art is based on sharing common values such as identity, origin and excellence’.

The exhibition features the brands AMAG, Claudiouro, Fernando Martins Pereira, Mel Jewel, Rosarinho Cruz and Tea & Oatcakes, which bring the best of Portuguese jewellery to the centre of the national creative scene – now in perfect harmony with Aveleda’s wines.

HMB’s music brightens up the 2025 National Wine Tourism Award

They’re just three letters long, but they promise to make a whole alphabet of sounds that bring together soul, R&B, funk, jazz and hip hop. The HMB are the musical guests at this year’s National Wine Tourism Gala, held in the heart of the Dão, at Quinta do Castelo in Nelas, on 30 May, starting at 6pm. The joy and energy they bring to their performances will always be the centrepiece of our party.
Considered one of the best national bands today, HMB, the acronym for Héber Marques Band, the group’s lead singer, are the musical guests at the APENO/Ageas Seguros 2025 National Wine Tourism Awards. You could say that ‘Amor é Assim’ (Love is Like This) is a meeting between music and wine tourism, bringing together the soul of Portuguese music and the heart of the Dão region. This is where the good energy of the HMB will palpitate, in what is already considered the biggest wine tourism ceremony in the country. On 30 May, starting at 6pm, all roads will lead to Quinta do Castelo, in Nelas, for the Gala that awards the best projects, companies and professionals that stood out in the wine tourism sector in 2024.

With a luxury cast, with broadcaster Joana Cruz hosting the ceremony, the HMB will further brighten up the festival that celebrates wine, the territory and the tourist experience with a line-up that is still the secret of the gods, but which promises to excite and make an entire audience dance, eager to hear songs like ‘Não me Leve a Mal’, ‘Dia D’, “Paixão” or the fun ‘Naptel Xulima’.
“Having the HMB with us at such a special moment is a huge honour. We couldn’t be happier. I believe that the HMB will bring a contagious energy to our party. The relaxed and happy rhythm of what is considered to be one of the best national bands fits in very well with the purpose of the National Wine Tourism Award, which wants to emphasise, year after year, these same feelings among all the guests. Everyone’s relaxation and good humour, with Joana Cruz introducing the Gala and the HMB rounding off the party, is a moment of Portugal at its best,” says the president of the Portuguese Wine Tourism Association (APENO), Maria João de Almeida.

With a sound that fuses soul, R&B, funk, a touch of jazz and hip hop, the HMB came together in 2007 to form what became known as the acronym of their lead singer’s name: Héber Marques (Band). He was joined by Daniel Lima (keyboardist), Joel Silva (drummer) and Joel Xavier (bassist). They all come from previous backgrounds and all profess the religion of the evangelical church, the place of worship where they started playing together and formed the group that quickly gained wings on the Portuguese music scene, always singing in their mother tongue and with a lot of groove.
From there to band competitions was a flash in the pan. They won many until they decided to take a more serious step in their musical career. In 2012, they released their first album with the same name, ‘HMB’, and the single ‘Dia D’ was an immediate hit on the radio.
We haven’t yet revealed whether this song will be played at the APENO Gala, but we do know that they’re delighted to be part of the National Wine Tourism Award 2025: “We’re delighted to be playing in Dão on 30 May and celebrating the rich local wine culture. We can’t wait to enjoy the stunning landscapes, the incredible wines and the delicious food of the region at the APENO event, which promises to bring together music, wine and unique experiences in one very special evening,” says the band.

Influenced by North American black music, with Al Green, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder and Michael Jackson at the forefront, HMB released their second album, ‘Sente’, in 2014, which proved that their debut album wasn’t pure luck. Here you can hear for the first time the songs ‘Feeling’, “Talvez” and ‘Naptel Xulima’, real calling cards for the band. With a more danceable sound, this disc also explores creative partnerships: Da Chick, Samuel Úria, Sir Scratch and DJ Ride lend their talents to ‘Sente’, in fusions that become a wave of hits for HMB.

Nominated for ‘Best Portuguese Act’ at the 2014, 2016 and 2017 MTV Europe Music Awards, it was at the Golden Globes in 2017 that HMB won ‘Best Song’ with ‘O Amor é Assim’. Born out of an unlikely duet with fado singer Carminho, this song became the band’s biggest hit to date and is still on the lips of all the Portuguese today.
This was followed by new albums in 2017 (‘Mais’), 2020 (“Melodramático”) and 2023 (‘Neste Deserto Nascem Flores’), new partnerships with Rui Veloso and Pedro Abrunhosa, among others, many concerts and a lot of travelling, always at the frenetic pace of HMB. And if 2015 was the band’s breakthrough year, ten years later the public still expects a lot from a group that was formed in a church and suddenly opened its doors to the world. On 30 May, HMB’s world will be in the heart of the Dão region, with their music confirming the increasingly strong pulse of wine tourism in Portugal.

Casa Relvas organises another edition of “A Day in São Miguel”

Casa Relvas will once again open its doors at Herdade de São Miguel in Redondo on 31 May to host another edition of “A Day in São Miguel”, a traditional event that celebrates the best of the Alentejo with wines, olive oils, gastronomy, music and handicrafts. The initiative, which starts at 2pm and runs until sunset, invites families and friends to enjoy an afternoon in the countryside in a relaxed and festive atmosphere. For Alexandre Relvas, CEO of Casa Relvas, this is ‘a unique moment in the year, which allows us to bring together the great family that is Casa Relvas – employees, customers, friends and partners – in a relaxed and cosy atmosphere’. With wine and olive oil tastings, showcooking by the bonfire with the “Fogo da Terra” project, traditional games, Merino sheep shearing, painting of typical Alentejo furniture and paper flower demonstrations, the event aims to enhance the authenticity and spirit of the region. The programme also includes concerts with Miguel Araújo, the Trovadores de Redondo and Seven Dixie, and three special tastings, with wines and olive oils commented on by Henrique Herculano, Alexandre Relvas Jr. and João Barroso. Tickets cost 35 euros per person (with free entry for children under 18) and can be purchased online via Ticketline. The tastings have an additional cost of 5 euros each, which will be donated in full to the Évora Food Bank. With previous editions sold out, the organisation advises buying tickets in advance. Just 1.5 hours from Lisbon, Herdade de São Miguel once again promises to be the setting for a memorable day, with the authenticity, sharing and flavours of the Alentejo at the heart of everything.

Adega de Borba celebrates 70 years with conference dedicated to cooperatives and Alentejo wines

On 7 May, Adega de Borba celebrates its 70 years of history with a conference open to the public, dedicated to reflecting on the cooperative model in the wine sector and the 36 years since Alentejo wines were demarcated as a Denomination of Origin.
Taking place in the auditorium of the Adega de Borba (Largo Gago Coutinho e Sacadura Cabral, no. 25) from 9.30am, the event will be a time for sharing ideas and experiences, bringing together experts in the sector, leaders of co-operative wineries from all over the country and representatives of public bodies linked to agricultural policy and regional development.
During the morning, the focus will be on cooperative organisation, with speeches addressing the current reality of cooperative wineries, the organised production model and the role of cooperatives in the sustainability of the sector. Confirmed speakers include António Mendes (president of FENADEGAS), Susana Gaspar (GPP) and João Mota Barroso (president of Adega de Borba). The programme also includes a round table on the theme of ‘The paths to the future of cooperative wineries’, moderated by Isabel Martins, from Abilways Portugal.

The afternoon will be dedicated to celebrating the 36th anniversary of the demarcation of Alentejo wines, with the participation of leading figures such as Joaquim Madeira, Maria Clara Roque do Vale, Francisco Mateus, Alexandre Vaz, Luís Sequeira and Eduardo Diniz. The speeches will focus on enhancing the collective “Alentejo” brand, managing territorial identity and strategies for national and international affirmation of the region.
The closing session, scheduled for 6pm, will feature Óscar Gato, representing Adega de Borba, and may also be attended by the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries, José M. Fernandes (pending confirmation).
Participation in the conference is free, subject to prior registration, and represents a unique opportunity to get to know one of the country’s most emblematic wineries up close, whose history is intertwined with the Alentejo’s winemaking achievements over the last few decades.

New Single Varietal Wines from Quinta da Vacaria Reflect the ‘Richness and Diversity’ of the Douro’s Terroirs

Quinta da Vacaria, located in Peso da Régua, has just launched three new 2023 single varietal wines, which reinforce the quinta’s commitment to producing high quality wines with a strong and distinct personality. The launches include Quinta da Vacaria Gouveio 2023, Quinta da Vacaria Rabigato 2023 and Quinta da Vacaria Viosinho 2023, three wines that highlight the Douro region’s most expressive grape varieties.
According to the winemaking team, led by João Menezes, these varieties (Gouveio, Rabigato and Viosinho) were the ones that stood out the most in the 2023 harvest, showing a unique personality during their development in the barrels. The focus on single varietal wines reflects the search for excellence and the pure expression of the terroir. With these launches, Quinta da Vacaria increases its range of single varietal wines to six, following the success of the first wines presented in 2024.
With production limited to just over three thousand bottles of each of the new vintages, the wines can be purchased in the country’s main wine stores, both in physical stores and online, with prices ranging from 55 to 60 euros per bottle.

The production of single varietal wines is described by the Quinta da Vacaria winemaking team as a ‘one shot opportunity’, in other words, a great chance to create a wine of exceptional quality or to fail. The key to success lies in the quality of the grape, which in this case was achieved due to the unique combination of terroir factors. Quinta da Vacaria highlights the influence of the transitional soils between schist and granite, the altitude of the vineyards at around 600 meters, the cool climate that preserves the acidity of the grapes, and the cold winds that guarantee balanced ripening.
The quinta’s new wines were made with all oenophiles in mind and are perfect for immediate consumption or for the next five years. The winemaking team’s recommendation is to serve each wine at a temperature of between 9 and 11 degrees, with specific pairings for each one. Rabigato, for example, is suggested with grilled fish (sea bass or sea bream) or a lemon tart. The more elegant and complex Gouveio goes well with poultry dishes, such as saffron rice or fresh cheese with walnuts and honey. Viosinho, with its intense tropical fruit aromas, is ideal for more elaborate dishes with some fat, such as risottos.
Quinta da Vacaria Gouveio 2023, Rabigato 2023 and Viosinho 2023 are now available on the market, with prices ranging from 55 to 60 euros per bottle.

Casaleiro with new images and references

The Casaleiro brand is entering a new era, renewing its identity and strengthening its presence in the market. With a modern and elegant restyling, the Reserva wines now carry the DOC Tejo certification, maintaining the authenticity and quality that have always characterised the brand. In addition to the new image, the brand is investing in diversifying its offer, launching two new references to win over an even wider audience.

One of the oldest brands in the Tejo region, Casaleiro has preserved consistency and balance in the profile of its wines, emphasising traditional Portuguese grape varieties. In the reds, the fruity aromas and silky tannins stand out, while the whites impress with their freshness and citrus and tropical flavours.

The Casaleiro range is made up of three reserves – Casaleiro Reserva Tinto DOC Tejo, Casaleiro Reserva Branco DOC Tejo and Casaleiro Reserva IGP Tejo Tinto Syrah – and three selected vintages – Casaleiro Colheita Selecionada Tinto, Casaleiro Colheita Selecionada Branco and Casaleiro Colheita Selecionada Rosé – guaranteeing versatility and options for different palates and occasions. Now, the brand has further strengthened its offer with the launch of two new references: Casaleiro Colheita Selecionada Rosé 2024 and Casaleiro Reserva IGP Tejo Tinto Syrah 2022.

Aveleda Renews Image of Parcelas Range with Sophisticated Rebranding

Aveleda has just presented the rebranding of its Parcelas range, reinforcing the visual identity of the Aveleda Parcela do Roseiral and Aveleda Parcela do Convento wines. With a more elegant and sophisticated design, the new image emphasises the origin and exclusivity of these wines, which come from micro-terroirs and are produced in very limited quantities.

Aveleda Parcela do Roseiral, an Alvarinho monovarietal, and Aveleda Parcela do Convento, a Loureiro of great expressiveness, reflect the care and attention to detail at every stage of their creation. According to Filipa Albergaria, Aveleda’s brand manager, this renovation ‘goes beyond a simple aesthetic update, representing a strategic evolution of the brand. The aim is to strengthen the link with demanding consumers who appreciate more complex wines, anchored in their origins.’

The new identity focuses on pure lines, delicate textures and subtle colours, visually translating the elegance of the sensory experience provided by these wines. While Parcela do Roseiral stands out for its velvety texture and long finish, Parcela do Convento enchants with expressive aromas of white flowers, passion fruit and citrus fruits.

Graham’s celebrates Mother’s Day with flowers, wine and gastronomy on the banks of the Douro

The emblematic Graham’s 1890 cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia are opening their doors next Mother’s Day for a memorable celebration. Flowers, Port wine and excellent cuisine set the tone for an experience designed to honour all mothers, in a cosy atmosphere with a privileged view of the Douro River.

The programme begins with a brief visit to the historic Graham’s cellars, followed by a special cocktail made with Graham’s Blend Nº 12 Port wine. The floral moment comes soon after, with a Country Flower Arrangement Workshop led by florist Menez Porto, where each participant will be able to create their own bouquet with wild and seasonal flowers.

The morning ends with an exclusive tasting of Graham’s Natura Biológico Port wine – a benchmark of the house, with a fresh, floral and elegant aromatic profile and a rich, fruity flavour that promises to delight. To extend this special day, Graham’s is offering lunch at the Vinum restaurant, which has prepared an exclusive menu for the occasion. Among the suggestions are starters such as tuna tartare, mushroom croquettes and Alheira de Mirandela. The main course will be cod with green broth and, to finish on a high note, a caramel and raspberry tart. Wine pairing will be the responsibility of the house sommelier, with suggestions such as Pequeno Dilema and Prazo de Roriz, both Douro DOC wines from Symington.

Bookings for the Mother’s Day Workshop (€65, for mum + daughter/son) can be made by calling 223 776 490 or emailing grahams@grahamsportlodge.com. Lunch at Vinum costs €55 per person, with optional harmonisation for €29, and can be booked by calling 220 930 417 or emailing reservas@vinumatgrahams.com.