The Alentejo Protected Designations of Origin offer a unique taste experience by combining centuries-old wine-growing traditions with modern winemaking techniques. The result is wines of incomparable quality and flavour, recognised the world over. Alentejo wines have a unique character that blends rich, intense flavours with distinct terroir notes that reflect the history, culture and wine-growing traditions of this region of Portugal.
The Alentejo is renowned for producing some of Portugal's finest wines. With rich, complex flavours, they will satisfy the palates of even the most demanding wine lovers. Three of the Alentejo's most emblematic vineyards are the Herdade do Esporão, and its 700 hectares of vines, is one of the largest vineyards in the region. The team produces a variety of red, white and rosé wines. The Cartuxa winery, founded in 1776, produces award-winning wines from grapes grown in the surrounding hills. Monte da Ravasqueira is a family estate that produces a variety of award-winning wines from grapes grown on the fertile soils of the Alentejo. The vineyards of the Alentejo are a real invitation to travel. The picturesque landscapes, the scents of the land and the rich, complex flavours of the local wines make this region a must-see destination for wine lovers in search of new tastes.

Alentejo wines, tradition and modernity

Bunch of grapes in a vineyard in the Alentejo.
- © Sopotnicki / ShutterstockThe PDOs of the Alentejo, Portugal's diversity
Alentejo is a wine-growing region rich in diversity and flavour. Alentejo wines are classified into different PDOs that represent the different terroirs and winemaking styles of the region.
- The Alentejo PDO is the largest PDO in the region. It produces mainly full-bodied red wines, with notes of black fruit and spices. The white wines flirt with fruity and floral flavours.
- The Évora PDO is a region of the Alentejo that stands out for its elegant, well-balanced red wines. The white wines are produced with exquisite fruity aromas.
- Reguengos PDO is a region that produces mainly intense red wines, with notes of red fruit and spices.
- The Portalegre PDO stands out for its elegant, complex red wines. The white wines are renowned for their lightness and finesse.

Vineyard at Évora in the Alentejo.
- © LianeM / ShutterstockThe 3 best vineyards to discover Alentejo wines
Herdade do Esporão, near the town of Monsaraz
Located in Monsaraz, Herdade do Esporão is one of the largest vineyards in the Alentejo, with over 700 hectares of vines. They produce red, white and rosé wines. Visitors can enjoy a guided tour of the vineyards, the cellar and wine tasting with the estate's sommelier. Foodies can enjoy a gourmet meal in the Michelin-starred restaurant.
How does a visit to the winery work?
A visit and tasting at Herdade do Esporão begins with a guided tour of the estate, which includes a walk through the vineyards and a visit to the winery.
Visitors can then sample a selection of award-winning wines, accompanied by local produce, while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
Discover the beauty of the estate and the wine collections on the official website of the Portuguese estate Herdade do Esporão.

Monte do Giestal - Casas de Campo & Spa
Featuring an outdoor swimming pool, Monte do Giestal offers air-conditioned villas with kitchens. Its spa includes private massage rooms, a whirlpool and a sauna.Adega da Cartuxa, in the historic city of Évora
Founded in 1776, the Cartuxa winery, located in the historic city of Évora, is one of the oldest in the region. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cellars, wine production and, of course, taste the award-winning wines. The winery also boasts a renowned restaurant, the "Taberna do Carmo", serving regional cuisine.
What is a visit to the winery like?
Located in the historic city of Évora, Adega da Cartuxa offers a unique experience in an elegant and sophisticated setting. The visit begins with an exploration of the traditional wine cellar, followed by a tasting of the prestigious wines, renowned for their complexity.
Visitors can savour the fruity aromas and woody notes while enjoying the rustic beauty of the Alentejo. The wines are accompanied by fine local produce for an unforgettable tasting experience.
Book your visit to Adega da Cartuxa.
Monte da Ravasqueira, in the hills of central Portugal
Located in Arraiolos, Monte da Ravasqueira is a family-run estate that produces a variety of award-winning wines. Visitors can take a guided tour of the vineyards, taste Alentejo wines and even enjoy a picnic on the estate. True enthusiasts of the Dyonisos beverage can visit a wine museum with a collection of objects and photographs relating to the history of wine production in the region.
How does a visit to the winery work?
Monte da Ravasqueira offers an immersive visit in a picturesque and enchanting setting. Accompanied by quality local cheeses and charcuterie, you taste refined wines with fruity and spicy notes.
You can find the full programme for your visit on the Monte da Ravasqueira website.
Practical information
🚗 Car hire with driver in Alentejo
Ready to explore the vineyards of Alentejo without worrying about driving or parking? Then let me tell you about the perfect solution: hiring a car with a private driver!
You can enjoy every wine tasting experience without worrying about driving, and relax as you watch the beautiful Alentejo scenery unfold before your eyes. Your driver will be on hand to provide you with interesting information about the region, give you tasting tips and even take photos of you with your favourite glass of wine!

Wine-growing landscapes in Portugal's Alentejo region.
- © dabyki.nadya / Shutterstock