On Friday, May 22, theLAB Porto shifts its focus from the vineyard to the orchard for a special edition of our producer tasting series. We are excited to welcome Pedro Paiva, the visionary behind Sidra Faca nos Dentes, for an exploration of Portuguese natural cider.
Based in the rugged landscapes of Northern Portugal, Pedro Paiva has become a pivotal figure in the country’s burgeoning craft cider movement. His journey is one of pure curiosity and craft; after honing his sensibilities while working in French vineyards, Pedro returned to Portugal to apply those low-intervention principles to a different fruit. Utilizing wild and traditional apple varieties hand-picked from abandoned or untended orchards, he produces ciders that are a far cry from the commercial, sugar-laden versions often found on shelves.
The Philosophy: Purity, Balance, and Purpose
"Faca nos Dentes" (Knife in the Teeth) represents an edgy, uncompromising approach to fermentation. Pedro’s work is defined by more than just what is in the bottle; he is deeply involved in social justice causes across Portugal, bringing a sense of community and activism to his craft. His ciders are:
- Naturally Fermented: Relying on indigenous yeasts to express the true character of the fruit without additives.
- Orchard-Driven: Sourced from wild-growing trees in northern regions where the fruit possesses the high acidity and tannic structure necessary for "real" cider.
- Socially Conscious: Pedro views his work as a tool for connection and change, reflecting his heavy involvement in social justice initiatives.
- Gastronomic and Refined: Despite his self-taught roots, Pedro’s ciders have gained international attention for their elegance, fine bubbles, and exceptional balance.
The Experience
During this interactive talk and tasting, Pedro will guide us through four distinct ciders. You will learn about the challenges of sourcing wild fruit, the nuances of natural carbonation, and the intersection of traditional fermentation and social activism.
- Exclusive Credit: Each ticket includes a 5€ credit toward the purchase of any Faca nos Dentes products during the event.
Space is limited for this intimate session. Secure your ticket below to discover the wilder side of Portuguese fermentation and the stories behind the movement.
