Discover new distinctive releases from Algarve winemakers, featuring traditional grape varieties, award-winning reds and a limited-production late harvest
Late harvest indulgence
When nobody’s quite ready for the night to end, Late Harvest 2024 from Quinta dos Capinhas is the bottle to reach for.
Crafted by winemaker Pedro Mendes from a tiny south-facing vineyard in Porches, just 2km from the Algarve coast, this golden beauty blends 70% Moscatel Graúdo and 30% Moscatel Roxo, with noble rot dialling up the flavour.
Think apricot, orange peel and honey, wrapped in vanilla and toasty French oak from 12 months in barrel. Lush, sweet and satin-smooth, it leaves a lingering, luxurious glow. Only 1,005 half-bottles were made, priced at around €25 – a small, decadent pleasure to share.
Robust red
All about easy glamour and golden-hour vibes, Cabrita Tinto Reserva 2024 brings pure Algarve terroir to your glass. This polished red, a gold medallist at the 2026 Vinhos do Algarve competition, feels tailor-made for slow evenings and long conversations.
A blend of Touriga Nacional, Aragonez, Alicante Bouschet and Tinta Miúda, it shimmers a deep ruby in the glass, with aromas of strawberry and pomegranate. On the palate, juicy fruit and lively acidity glide into a smooth, velvety finish.
At €21.50, it’s the fuss-free upgrade for your next dinner party, barbecue or cosy Friday night in.
West coast delight
For nights that feel a little more intriguing than usual, Uma Certa Forma de Ordem (A Certain Form of Order) 2023 sets the perfect tone.
Created by young, irreverent Italian winemaker Filippo Pozzi at Atlasland, it’s made from old-vine Castelão grown in the wild west Algarve, in a 30-year-old northwest-facing vineyard rooted in deep clay.
Fermented in open-top vats and aged for 20 months in seasoned François Frères barrels, it favours quiet elegance over muscle: layered red fruit, discreet spice, and a poised, food-friendly structure. With just 2,500 bottles at €35 cellar-door, it’s a ready-made conversation starter.
Laid-back Negra Mole
Think of Apolónia’s Negra Mole 2025 as your off-duty Algarve red: relaxed yet effortlessly chic. This own-label, single-variety wine showcases one of the region’s most traditional grapes, reimagined in a bright, contemporary style.
Expect juicy red berries, gentle earthy notes, and a soft, silky texture that shines when lightly chilled. It’s built for unfussy, delicious moments: grilled sardines, tuna steaks, pizza on the sofa, or a simple Mediterranean spread with friends.
At €17.95, it’s an everyday little luxury; the kind of bottle you casually pop in your basket, then end up planning the whole evening around.
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