Taste Tavira in a Glass: Discover Local Wines at AL-LAGAR

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

Everyday Essentials in Tavira – Supermarkets and Organic Shopping Near Taste Tavira

For guests staying at Taste Tavira, everyday shopping is both convenient and varied. Whether you’re preparing meals in your accommodation or seeking local delicacies, several supermarkets and specialty shops are just a short walk away.

Pingo Doce Tavira – Centro , a well-known Portuguese supermarket chain, is located nearby. It offers a wide selection of fresh produce, bakery items, meats, and ready-made meals. The store is clean, affordable, and features an in-house bakery—perfect for grabbing warm bread and pastries in the morning.

A short stroll further brings you to both Lidl and Aldi , two popular discount supermarkets. Lidl Tavira , located at Largo Santo António Amaro 1, provides a solid selection of international and local products, including fresh fruits, meats, and a variety of Portuguese wines. Aldi , situated on Rua de São Pedro, offers a range of organic produce, pantry staples, and a good bakery section.

For those interested in organic and locally-sourced products, Maria Flaminga is a must-visit. Located behind the Aldi supermarket on the N125, this organic farm shop, run by Isabel Pedras Ribeiro (nicknamed “Maria Flaminga”), offers a variety of fresh, certified organic fruits, vegetables, herbs, and eggs. The shop is set in a charming environment, surrounded by blooming fields and a garden nursery. It’s open from Thursday to Saturday, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. (2025)

For a taste of France in Tavira, La Baguette Française is a delightful artisan French bakery offering freshly baked baguettes, croissants, and pastries. Located near the historic center, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely breakfast or pick up treats to go.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or looking for local treats, Tavira’s supermarkets and specialty shops make it easy to shop like a local and enjoy the flavors of the Algarve.

Locations:

  • Pingo Doce Tavira – Centro
    Rua Silva Domingues, 8800-328 Tavira
  • Lidl Tavira
    Largo Santo António Amaro 1, 8800-703 Tavira
  • Aldi Tavira
    Rua de São Pedro, 8800-255 Tavira
  • Maria Flaminga
    Rua de São Pedro 580A, 8800-405 Tavira
  • La Baguette Française De Tavira
    Rua dos Mouros 20, 8800-410 Tavira