Daughters of Madness is a family-owned winery and cidery nestled in the picturesque Portuguese countryside. Founded by Luke Schomer and his wife Joana, the venture represents a culmination of Luke's extensive experience in the beverage industry.
Hailing from the United States, Luke honed his craft at various wineries and cider houses nationwide, developing a deep-rooted passion for fermentation. His journey as a journeyman winemaker equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of winemaking techniques and a discerning palate. After relocating to Portugal with his family, Luke found the ideal environment to pursue his vision of crafting natural, terroir-driven wines and ciders.
Joana, Luke's partner, plays an integral role in managing the business operations and creative direction of Daughters of Madness. Her artistic background contributes to the winery's visual identity and brand development.
Together, the couple embarked on their entrepreneurial journey in 2019, establishing Daughters of Madness with the aim of producing small-batch, artisanal products that authentically reflect the region's terroir. Committed to sustainable practices, they source grapes and apples from carefully selected vineyards and orchards in the Serra de Montejunto, particularly around Alcobaça, known for its exceptional apple varieties.
Luke's philosophy centers on minimal intervention winemaking, allowing the grapes to express their true character. This approach, combined with Joana's business acumen, has positioned Daughters of Madness as a rising star in the Portuguese wine and cider scene. The winery's dedication to quality, coupled with its passion for its craft, has garnered attention for its distinctive and flavorful products.