Pioneers of Winemaking in Portugal
In the 1850s, to the surprise of other wine producers, José Maria da Fonseca began bottling his Periquita wine range. At that time, still wine was still sold in bulk, in barrels, throughout Portugal. According to José Maria: “It was the civilized way of presenting things.”
“The pursuit of quality is crucial. Our yields are relatively low… and our vines are generally older than those of other vineyards. We focus our efforts on quality rather than producing large quantities.”
Environmental Innovators
José Maria da Fonseca was a pioneer of drip irrigation in Portugal, implementing the system in his vineyards as early as 1993. The estate was also among the first to practice cover cropping between vine rows to retain moisture and increase biodiversity. Soils are enriched with grape stems and organic matter from vine pruning. The estate strives to balance technology with the conservation of natural resources.
Highly Valued Old Vines
Although most of the José Maria da Fonseca vineyards were replanted between the late 1980s and early 1990s, the estate still boasts numerous old-vine plots. The warm plains of Alentejo, in southern Portugal, host the estate’s most prized vineyards. The Monte da Ribeira plot in Reguengos de Monsaraz was planted in the 1950s and became the first Portuguese vineyard with granite-supported trellised vines.
Traditional Winemaking in Clay Amphorae
Local grape varieties such as Trincadeira, Aragonez, and the exquisite Grand Noir are grown at Monte da Ribeira vineyard. The centuries-old fermentation technique in clay amphorae is used here to create authentic wines that express the unique and typical character of the region. This winemaking method preserves the wonderful freshness of these exceptional wines, which develop complex aromas of dates, chocolate, leather, and earth as they age.
Precious Family Recipe
The traditional Tortas de Azeitão are among the favorite desserts of the Soares Franco family. This recipe, made with eggs, sugar, flour, and cinnamon, has been passed down through generations. The delicately flaky texture and comforting sweetness of this pastry pair perfectly with the Moscatel de Setúbal from the José Maria da Fonseca estate. This sweet and fortified muscat is very fresh, with complex flavors developed through aging in traditional cellars.
Behind the Wines
Domingos Soares Franco
Born in 1956, Domingos Soares Franco is part of the 6th generation of the family that runs José Maria da Fonseca. Domingos is recognized as the first Portuguese winemaker to graduate from the winemaking program at the Davis campus of the prestigious University of California. His studies and passion for winemaking excellence led him to assemble a carefully selected team of oenologists, working on a wide range of research and experimental projects at the estate.