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Quinta da Bacalhoa Winery Guide

Winery Overview

The Bacalhôa palace at Quinta da Bacalhôa is only one of the numerous estates that now make up Bacalhôa Vinhos de Portugal, S.A., one of Portugal’s largest and most innovative wine companies. However, it was here that the Bacalhôa story started, and it remains the most fascinating place to visit. Situated in the Península de Setúbal wine region, just 20 miles south of Lisbon, this region is famous for its Moscatel de Setúbal dessert wine. Apart from these delicious sweeties, which continue to be produced at Bacalhôa today, investment and innovation have created some magnificent dry wines that have gained national and international recognition. Bacalhôa, from a winemaking perspective, dates back to 1922 when, under the name of João Pires and Filhos, they started by selling their grapes to other producers.

However, it wasn’t until the 1970s that the estate began to produce its own wines. Then, over 20 years later, in 1998, Comendador José Berardo became a significant shareholder, further contributing to the improvements and renovations needed to optimize the wine vinification and restore the beautiful Palace. 1979 was the first harvest of the new vine plantations, which included varieties similar to that of a Bordeaux blend (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot) and which quickly became one of Portugal’s most- sought-after wines.

The Palace itself dates back to the 15th century, formerly belonging to the Portuguese Royal family and having passed through several hands since; it now belongs to the Berardo Foundation, led by Comendador José Berardo. Each owner has added to the charm in one form or another. Today, it is proudly one of the country’s best-preserved pieces of Renaissance architecture, with an outstanding Portuguese tile collection. Interestingly, some of the most significant restorations were carried out under the ownership of Orlena Scoville, a North American who purchased the estate in 1936. Her grandson was responsible for transforming Bacalhôa into one of Portugal’s largest wine producers.

Today, Bacalhôa Vinhos de Portugal, S.A. produces over 20 million liters of wine across various wine regions (Dão, Douro, Bairrada, Óbidos, Alentejo, and the Península de Setúbal). On a visit to this alluring estate, you can sample some of their fine wines from other regions if you wish. No trip to Lisbon is complete without visiting this wonderful estate; it makes for a lovely day out; after spending the morning at the Quinta, you can explore the striking Arrábida National Park, local beaches, and the nearby town of Sesimbra.

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Author

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Genevieve Mc Carthy

Genevieve, originally from San Diego, California, has spent the last 25 years living in Europe, primarily in Spain, Ireland, and Italy. She has a background in the wine industry, having worked for a top wine importer in Ireland and a prestigious winery in Italy's Franciacorta region. In 2003, Genevieve founded Cellar Tours, a boutique wine tours company based in Madrid, Spain. She holds wine education credentials from the Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET) in London and has a strong network within the European wine industry. Genevieve's specializes in organizing VIP tours to exclusive wineries that are not accessible to the general public. With a passion for food and wine, fluency in multiple languages, and expertise in luxury travel and tourism, Genevieve has built a successful career in creating unique wine experiences.

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