Quinta Várzea da Pedra
Quinta Várzea da Pedra, a historic Portuguese wine producer located in Óbidos, has been cultivating its land since 1910. This family-run estate has seen four generations of dedication to agriculture, maintaining a strong tradition of producing fine wines and "Pêra Rocha" pears on its 26 hectares of land. The estate's journey into winemaking took a significant turn in 2015 when the brothers Tomás and Alberto Emídio took over the vineyards and cellar, marking the beginning of a new era for Quinta Várzea da Pedra.
The winemaking at Quinta Várzea da Pedra is characterized by a blend of old traditions and new inspirations. The estate emphasizes handcrafted practices and is committed to sustainability. They maintain herbicide-free vineyards and focus on low-yield production to ensure quality. The grapes are handpicked annually, and the winemaking process is based on the use of indigenous yeasts. This approach helps to reduce sulfur levels and allows the wines to express the unique characteristics of their location and the essence of the grapes.
Rodrigo Martins, a consultant winemaker, plays a pivotal role in the development of Quinta Várzea da Pedra's wines. His expertise has been instrumental in the recovery and reconversion of the vineyards, as well as in the improvement of the winery's facilities. The estate's wines are known for their high acidity and low pH, attributes that contribute to their distinctive flavor profiles.
Quinta Várzea da Pedra's commitment to sustainability and quality is reflected in their production methods and the careful attention they pay to the land and the winemaking process. This dedication not only preserves the family's agricultural heritage but also ensures that their wines continue to stand out in the DOC Óbidos region.
Portuguese wine
Frequently asked questions
The entire country of Portugal is divided into 14 different wine regions, including in the Azores and Madeira islands. Some of Portugal's most famous winemaking regions include the Douro Valley (known for Port) and Vinho Verde (known for its light, refreshing white wines).
Portugal is becoming more well known for its orange wines, talha wines (traditionally made in clay pots), and palhete (made by blending red and white grapes together).
Portugal is best known for its fortified wine, called Port wine. It is produced in the Douro Valley, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and recognized as the world's first demarcated wine region, established in 1756.
Vinho Verde in northern Portugal is another popular winemaking region characterized by rolling hills and lush landscapes. It's known around the world for low-alcohol, refreshing white wines, although the region traditionally focused more on red wines made with the fruit-forward vinhão grape.
The Portuguese island of Madeira, with its subtropical climate, is renowned for its fortified wines. Winemaking here dates back to the 15th century, when Portuguese
explorers brought grape varieties from around the world.
Our sustainable, natural wine shop is located in the Marquês neighborhood in Porto, Portugal. We also ship to countries around the world, including within Europe, the United States, Canada, Australia, China, and more. Review our Shipping Policy to learn more.
In recent years, there has been a notable shift toward sustainable viticulture and the production of natural wine in Portugal. Many winemakers are implementing organic farming practices and embracing biodiversity to maintain soil health and reduce chemical inputs. This commitment to sustainability is not only beneficial for the environment but also enhances the quality of the wines, allowing the unique characteristics of the terroir to shine through. For example, some winemakers are now utilizing ancient terracotta amphorae for fermentation (called talha in Portuguese). This method preserves regional cultural heritage, enhances the wine's character, and aligns with sustainable practices by reducing reliance on modern materials.