Monte da Casteleja, nestled in the Lagos region of Portugal's Algarve, is a testament to the exciting blend of tradition and modern innovation in Portuguese winemaking. While the exact date of its establishment isn't readily available, its focus on organic viticulture and handcrafted wines has quickly earned it a reputation for quality.
Monte da Casteleja's story begins with French-born Guillaume Abel Luís Leroux, who inherited the long-abandoned property from his Portuguese grandfather. Recognizing the potential of the land, Guillaume embarked on a project to revitalize it, focusing on organic wine production.
The name "Casteleja" itself reflects the historical significance of the land. Archaeologists discovered the ruins of a small Roman castle lie within the property. "Monte," on the other hand, signifies a typical Portuguese farm with a house on a small hill, a fitting description of the estate's current form.
Sustainability is a cornerstone of Monte da Casteleja's philosophy. They cultivate their vineyards using organic methods, fostering a healthy ecosystem for the vines and minimizing environmental impact. This commitment to organic practices ensures that the unique character of the Algarve terroir is reflected in their wines.
Monte da Casteleja champions a hands-on approach to winemaking. Grapes are meticulously hand-harvested at optimal ripeness, a practice reminiscent of the best Douro Valley vineyards. In the winery, some techniques echo the past, such as treading the best grapes at the end of the day, similar to the methods used in Port production.
Monte da Casteleja strives to showcase the potential of both local and international grape varieties. They cultivate native Portuguese grapes like Castelão and Touriga Nacional alongside international favorites like Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon. This blend allows them to create a diverse range of wines, catering to various palates.
Monte da Casteleja is a family-run operation that strongly emphasizes a welcoming atmosphere. It offers guided tours of its vineyards and winery, allowing visitors to witness its passion for organic viticulture and artisanal winemaking firsthand. Wine tastings paired with regional tapas are also available, creating a truly immersive experience for wine enthusiasts.
Monte da Casteleja represents a new wave of Algarve winemakers dedicated to quality, sustainability, and innovation. Their commitment to organic practices, exploration of grape varieties, and traditional techniques like hand-harvesting and foot treading contribute to their captivating range of wines. As they continue to refine their craft and share their story with the world, Monte da Casteleja promises to be a name to remember in the exciting landscape of Portuguese wine.
