Pico Island, nestled in the heart of the Azores archipelago, is a place where rugged volcanic landscapes meet the Atlantic Ocean. Amidst this natural beauty, Cátia Laranjo, a 31-year-old native Azorean, has woven her passion for winemaking into a compelling story.
Cátia’s journey began at the Azores Wine Company, where she honed her skills and immersed herself in the art of viticulture. But her heart yearned for something more—a project that would reflect her deep connection to her roots. In 2020, she took a leap of faith and birthed her own venture: ETNOM.
The name ETNOM holds a secret—an anagram of her village, Lugar do Monte. Cátia’s vision was clear: she would create wines exclusively from vineyards in her village and its surroundings. These sun-kissed slopes, kissed by salty ocean breezes, would be the canvas for her oenological artistry.
Cátia’s love affair with wine began early. As a child, she stood alongside her father, hands stained with grape juice, as they harvested the precious fruit. The vineyards were her playground, and the scent of fermenting grapes her childhood perfume.
Her quest for knowledge took her beyond the Azores. She worked on vineyards in the Douro, Alentejo, and even ventured as far as South Africa. These experiences were not mere internships; they were chapters in her education. At the University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, she delved into oenology, absorbing wisdom from ancient vines and modern techniques.
In 2020, Cátia began crafting wines under the ETNOM label. She started with her brother’s grapes, infusing them with the island’s essence. But her commitment went deeper. In 2021, she lovingly restored her father’s vineyard, ensuring that every grape carried the island’s genetic legacy. “100% from the island,” she declared, her eyes reflecting the volcanic soil.
ETNOM’s portfolio tells tales of sun-drenched slopes and salty winds. The ETNOM white, crisp and vibrant, whispers of sea spray. The rosé, blushing like a sunrise over the Atlantic, dances on the palate. And the red, bold and earthy, echoes the island’s volcanic heartbeat.
But there’s more. Canada dos Ladrões, named after a childhood path, evokes memories of innocence and adventure. Its grapes, sourced from a local winegrower, carry the island’s whispers.
And then there’s 2351 metros, a tribute to Pico mountain. From ancient vines at Lajido da Criação Velha, it embodies the island’s rugged spirit—the same spirit that courses through Cátia’s veins.
