Tiago Teles, a restless force in the Portuguese wine world, yearned to escape the confines of the Douro and explore the Atlantic coast. He found his ideal partner in António Marques da Cruz, a kindred spirit from Leiria. Together, they embarked on a mission to revive the legendary Quinta dos Cozinheiros, a vineyard once championed by the charismatic José Mendonça, tragically lost in a 2009 car accident.
In 2015, they harvested the long-abandoned vineyards, a poignant act of remembrance. The resulting wines, born from a joyous co-fermentation of Baga (both old and young vines) with other red and white varieties in cement tanks, embody a natural, wild, and spontaneous philosophy. These wines, a testament to the expressive terroir of Figueira da Foz, breathed new life into the region, showcasing the dynamic talents of a new generation of winemakers.
But their ambitions didn't stop there. In early 2017, they acquired a vineyard in the Serra de Montejunto, launching Coz's "Vital do Oeste." This project focuses on old vines, allowing for a raw and unfiltered expression of the region's unique character.
Coz is more than just a wine label; it's a collaborative effort driven by a shared passion for reviving forgotten vineyards and crafting wines that authentically reflect their terroir. Teles and Cruz, with their distinct personalities and complementary skills, have created a powerful partnership that is pushing the boundaries of Portuguese winemaking. Their wines are a testament to the enduring power of tradition, innovation, and a deep respect for the land.
