Wines with a View: Tavira’s Vineyard Revival

You can’t miss it when entering Tavira from the A22 motorway: vineyards stretch out on both sides of the road, accompanied by eye-catching billboards for Casa Santos Lima wines . One of Portugal’s largest wine producers, this fifth-generation family-owned company is best known for its wide selection and international reach—90% of their wine production is exported to over 50 countries.

Winemaking in the Algarve has ancient roots, dating back to the Phoenicians and Romans. But the region’s wine scene experienced a long pause until recent decades brought a welcome revival. Casa Santos Lima invested in the Tavira area by acquiring older vineyards and planting new ones. According to local managers Gonçalo Fialho and Ruben Martins , the conditions are ideal: abundant sunshine, ocean breezes, and mineral-rich clay and limestone soils.

In 2024, the winery opened AL-LAGAR , a beautifully restored 19th-century wine press turned visitor center, just outside Tavira. Here, wine lovers can enjoy a full wine tourism experience , including guided vineyard walks, tastings of both regional and signature wines, and light Algarvean pairings—all set against a scenic countryside backdrop.

While the Casa Santos Lima portfolio includes wines from across Portugal, don’t miss their local Tavira selections . Try the red or white Castelo de Tavira —a wine that captures the essence of the region in every sip.

To plan your visit or book a tasting experience, check out their official website:
👉 www.al-lagar.com