Unique Characteristics of Azorean Wines

Unique Characteristics of Azorean Wines

The cultivation of vineyards in the Azores Archipelago started at the beginning of its colonization, having assumed an important economic role for the region from an early age.

The Azores wines have gained fame for their quality, being especially appreciated in England, Russia and Brazil and exported to several countries.

To get to know Azorean wines better, it is necessary to take into account some factors, which are at the origin of a unique and exceptional wine production:

  • Volcanic soils are beneficial for the vineyards, because they are rich in minerals and nutrients.
  • The climate of mild temperatures with small thermal amplitude, high rainfall and high humidity, provides good conditions for the development of wine production.
  • The stone enclosures (which can be seen in the photo above, taken on the island of Pico), offer effective protection from sea winds.

However, it is important to note that in the second half of the 19th century, with the appearance of phylloxera and cryptogamic diseases, almost all the vines of the variety called “Verdelho Antigo” disappeared.

The current Verdelho wine is a direct descendant of the old Verdelho and has been preserved in small strongholds on the islands of Pico (Lajidos), Terceira (Biscoitos) and Graciosa. These places have managed to preserve the tradition and quality of this variety over the centuries. The actions of conversion of the vine that were carried out, allowed a significant recovery of the traditional Verdelho wine, and new varieties of European origin were also successfully introduced.

The noble and rare varieties of the Azores are: Arinto dos Açores (exclusive grape from the Azores), Terrantez do Pico (also exclusive from the Azores) and Verdelho (emblematic grape from the Azores also grown in Madeira). You can find more information about them here.

In 1995, to guarantee the authenticity, quality and control of wines, through the definition of their production process and the promotion and defence of certified wines, the Regional Viticultural Commission of the Azores was established, based in Madalena, Pico island.

You can consult the 21 certified economic agents that currently exist in the Azores here.

Image by Jacqueline Macou from Pixabay