| In 1997 SOGRAPE consolidated its presence in the Alentejo with the purchase of Herdade do Peso, at Pedrógão, in the Vidigueira district. After investing in the main northern regions of the country – Vinho Verde, Douro, Bairrada and Dão – SOGRAPE took the decision to invest in the Alentejo, the fastest-growing wine region in the country.
The presence of the Alentejo in the company’s portfolio started in 1991, with the launch of Vinha do Monte. Made from grapes bought from local growers from the Vidigueira area, Vinha do Monte was vinified at a wine centre rented for the purpose, although with a technology suited to the intended wine quality. Some of the equipment at this wine centre belonged to SOGRAPE itself, as did the technicians monitoring vinification.
In 1992 SOGRAPE strengthened its strategy in the Alentejo Region by entering into a contract for the purchase of grapes with the owners of Herdade do Peso. New vineyards were planted at the estate, with SOGRAPE’s technical support. The wine was still made at a rented wine centre.
Five years later, Herdade do Peso was bought by the SOGRAPE Group and the building of a modern wine centre got under way in 1998.
Currently in the company’s portfolio is VINHA DO MONTE, made from a blend of the varieties at the estate. Aiming at the market’s premium sector, SOGRAPE has already launched three single-variety wines: HERDADE DO PESO (Trincadeira, Alfrocheiro and Aragonês). The year 2001 saw the launching of SOGRAPE RESERVA ALENTEJO 1999.
|
