APENO opens applications for the new edition of the National Wine Tourism Award

23/02/2026Applications for the 2026 National Wine Tourism Award are open until February 28th and include 16 categories that recognize outstanding projects, professionals, and initiatives in the sector

APENO – the Portuguese Association of Wine Tourism – has announced the official opening of applications for the 2026 National Wine Tourism Award, the main national distinction dedicated exclusively to the wine tourism sector. The initiative aims to recognize and value the best projects, professionals, and experiences that contribute to the development, qualification, and promotion of wine tourism in Portugal.

Created with the aim of promoting, encouraging and recognizing success stories, the National Wine Tourism Award serves as a platform for visibility for initiatives that stand out for their quality, innovation, sustainability and hospitality, both in rural and urban contexts. The award further reinforces the strategic role of wine tourism as an economic, cultural and tourism driver at national and international levels.

In this new edition, the award includes 16 categories: Best Wine Tourism in Portugal, Best Urban Wine Tourism, Best Family Project, Best Professional, Best Accommodation, Best Restaurant, Best Chef, Best Sommelier, Best Tasting Room, Best Tourism Company, Best Inclusive Project, Best Sustainable Project, Best Shop, Best Art and Culture, Best Innovation and Technology, and Best Hospitality.
Applications are open from January 1st to February 28th, 2026, and must be submitted by sending the required documentation to the association’s official email address. The award regulations, available for consultation in digital format, define the categories, evaluation criteria, eligibility requirements, and application procedures.

Companies, projects, and professionals directly or indirectly linked to wine tourism are eligible to apply, provided they operate within the national territory and fall within the competition categories. APENO members with up-to-date membership fees are automatically eligible, as stipulated in the regulations. Non-member entities may also apply upon payment of a participation fee.
Applications will be evaluated by an independent and multidisciplinary jury, composed of journalists, institutional representatives from the wine and tourism sectors, chefs, sommeliers, and members of APENO, ensuring rigor and credibility in the selection process.

The winners will be revealed at the National Wine Tourism Award Gala, scheduled for May 29, 2026, at a location to be announced shortly, in an event that promises to once again bring together the main players in the sector to celebrate the excellence of Portuguese wine tourism.

Adega de Borba launches Senses Syrah 2023

21/02/2026Adega de Borba has presented the Senses Syrah 2023, the latest novelty in the relaunch of the Senses range, a collection of single-varietal wines that bets on a sensory approach to express the character and identity of each variety.

Adega de Borba has just reinforced the relaunch of the Senses range with the market arrival of Senses Syrah 2023, the third wine presented in this new phase, following Senses Viognier 2024 and Senses Petit Verdot 2023. The new red emerges as a seductive and enveloping interpretation of the Syrah grape, integrating a collection that favors an emotional reading of wine and presents itself with a renewed visual identity, marked by contemporary labels, distinctive colors, and a Burgundy bottle.

Based exclusively on single-varietal wines, the Senses range associates each variety with a specific sensation. In the case of Syrah, the chosen sensation is seduction, translated into a wine of slow conquest, which combines aromatic intensity, structure, and persistence, inviting a prolonged and emotional experience.

Produced from 100% Syrah grapes, sourced from the clay-limestone and schist soils of the Borba region, Senses Syrah 2023 reflects the good adaptation of the variety to the hot climates of Alentejo, maintaining freshness and balance. The grapes were harvested manually, following a rigorous control of ripeness.

In the winery, the wine was fully destemmed and fermented with complete maceration in stainless steel tanks with temperature control, followed by malolactic fermentation in vats. Aging took place over nine months in new French oak barrels, followed by about four months in the bottle, contributing to its complexity and structural balance.

Of deep garnet color, Senses Syrah 2023 presents a young and intense aroma, marked by red and black fruits. On the palate, it reveals good body, smooth and well-integrated tannins, and a long finish with notes of cocoa, asserting itself as an elegant and enveloping red.

At the table, it pairs particularly well with red meats, feathered game, and soft paste cheeses. It should be served between 16°C and 17°C. It is ready to drink, though it has aging potential up to six years. The recommended retail price is 8.99 euros.

With this launch, Adega de Borba consolidates the new phase of the Senses range, reinforcing communication centered on emotions, the expression of grape varieties, and the authenticity of wines, under the motto “honest wines, with emotion, to feel – without complications”.

Wine&Soul launches new harvests of Pintas wines

19/02/2026Wine&Soul has just released two new harvests of its iconic references, Pintas Character 2023 and Pintas 2023, wines that express the identity of old vines and mountain viticulture in the Douro.

Wine&Soul has presented the new harvests of its Pintas Character 2023 and Pintas 2023 wines, two references already well-established in the Douro producer’s portfolio and which reflect its production philosophy based on valuing old vines, indigenous grape varieties, and the mountain territory of the Douro.

Since its founding, Wine&Soul has aimed to create wines that reveal the identity and complexity of the region’s ancient vines. This approach is present in this duo, which results from rigorous work in the vineyard and the cellar, respecting the natural expression of the grapes and the terroir.

Pintas Character 2023 is born from carefully selected and partially destemmed grapes, which fermented in stone tanks (lagares) with foot treading. Malolactic fermentation and aging took place over 22 months in French oak barrels, giving rise to a complex, fruity, and structured wine. Sourced from old vines with about 30 indigenous varieties, it presents notes of black cherry and plum, accompanied by freshness, vibrant acidity, and well-textured tannins.

The Pintas 2023, meanwhile, results from a single plot of vines about 93 years old, bringing together approximately 40 indigenous Douro varieties. Malolactic fermentation and aging took place in French oak barrels for 23 months. It is an intense red, marked by floral aromas, wild herbs, minerality, and fresh black cherry, with firm tannins, great complexity, and excellent persistence.

This duo asserts itself as a proposal of strong character and high demand, reflecting the authenticity of the Douro as a benchmark region in the production of great wines and reaffirming Wine&Soul’s positioning in the terroir-driven wine segment.

Pintas Character 2023 has a recommended retail price of 30 euros, while Pintas 2023 comes to market with a recommended retail price of 115 euros.

ODE Cellar Door reinforces its annual program of experiences

16/02/2026ODE Cellar Door presents a continuous schedule of gastronomic, wine, and cultural experiences throughout the year, combining Asian-inspired cuisine, minimal intervention wines, regular events, and guided cellar tours.

ODE Cellar Door has announced an annual agenda marked by multiple opportunities to meet, reinforcing its proposal as a space for gastronomy, wine, and culture. The restaurant is open Tuesday through Sunday for lunch, and also on Friday and Saturday for dinner, featuring Asian-inspired cuisine prepared with local products, many of which come directly from the ODE Farm garden.

Among the regular initiatives, ODEOn stands out: a happy hour that takes place every Friday between 7 PM and 10 PM, with a DJ set accompanying the start of the weekend. During the event, there is always a featured wine with a special 2-for-1 promotion.

On the last Sunday of each month, the space hosts Sunday Jazz, an initiative that combines live music with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, designed for extended lunches and moments of socializing at the table, accompanied by a selection of wines.

ODE Cellar Door also promotes guided tours of the winery, which include wine tasting and allow visitors to explore the different production areas, as well as the journey of ODE wines from vine to glass.

Based on the principle of “minimal intervention, maximum attention,” ODE wines have been winning awards and distinctions in specialized publications, both nationally and internationally. Currently, the portfolio includes 15 references, designed to suit different consumption occasions.

For those unable to visit the space, ODE wines are available online through the ODE Shop, where it is also possible to purchase special discounted packs and benefit from exclusive advantages for members of the ODE Wine Club.

Throughout the year, the project will continue to promote wine dinners, events in partnership with local and wine projects, as well as the usual seasonal ODE Markets, with the aim of energizing the region and presenting new proposals. All information will be shared through the brand’s newsletter and social media.

Torre de Palma launches special Carnival program

15/02/2026Torre de Palma Wine Hotel has prepared a special Carnival program, valid from February 15th to 17th, inviting you to spend a long weekend in the Alentejo region, which includes accommodation, wine, gastronomy, wellness, and activities for the whole family.

Torre de Palma Wine Hotel proposes celebrating Carnival with a program designed for those seeking relaxation and the best of the Alentejo region in a tranquil and natural setting. Available between February 15th and 17th, 2026, the offer invites you to a getaway with experiences that highlight wine, gastronomy, and family leisure.

The program includes two nights’ accommodation with breakfast, a welcome drink at sunset in the tower, weather permitting, and a guided tour of the Torre de Palma Winery, accompanied by wine tasting and regional products. Lunch or dinner for two at the Torre de Palma Restaurant is also included, drinks not included.

Designed also for younger guests, the program includes a horseshoe painting workshop and other children’s activities, allowing the whole family to enjoy the experience. Guests also benefit from free access to the spa, which includes an indoor pool, jacuzzi and Turkish bath, as well as the use of bicycles for exploring the property.
The offer can be customized with additional activities, such as massages, horseback riding, or wine tastings, with a 15% discount for participants.

The Carnival Program is valid exclusively for the period of February 15th to 17th, 2026. Reservations can be cancelled free of charge up to 15 days before the check-in date, with prepayment required at the time of booking. The offer is valid only for direct bookings with the hotel and cannot be combined with other promotions.

Torre de Palma launches special program for lovers.

14/02/2026The Torre de Palma Wine Hotel, in Alto Alentejo, has prepared a special program for Valentine's Day, available between February 13th and 15th, which includes accommodation, gastronomy, wine, wellness, and experiences for two in a setting of nature and tranquility.

Torre de Palma Wine Hotel invites couples to celebrate Valentine’s Day with an exclusive program designed to provide moments of sharing in an environment marked by the Alentejo landscape, wine, and the serenity of the countryside.
The program includes two nights’ accommodation with breakfast, a welcome gift in the room with Torre de Palma wine, and a welcome drink at sunset in the tower (weather permitting). One of the highlights of the experience is a dinner for two at the Torre de Palma restaurant, with a tasting menu paired with wines from the estate.

The offer also includes a guided tour of the Torre de Palma Winery, free access to the spa – which includes an indoor pool, jacuzzi and Turkish bath – and the use of bicycles for rides around the property, inviting you to enjoy the tranquil rhythm of the Alto Alentejo region.

Participants can also customize the program with additional activities, such as horseback riding, wine tastings, or massages, benefiting from a 15% discount on these experiences.

The Valentine’s Day Special Program includes a superior double room and is valid exclusively for the period of February 13th to 15th, 2026. Reservations can be cancelled free of charge up to 15 days before the check-in date, with prepayment required at the time of booking. The offer is valid only for direct bookings with the hotel and cannot be combined with other promotions.

Le Monument prepares an exclusive menu for lovers.

14/02/2026Le Monument, the Michelin-starred restaurant at The One Monumental Palace hotel in Porto, is celebrating Valentine's Day with an exclusive menu created by chef Julien Montbabut, available on February 13th and 14th.

Le Monument, the gourmet restaurant at The One Monumental Palace hotel in the heart of Porto, is celebrating Valentine’s Day with a special double offering. On February 13th and 14th, the Michelin-starred restaurant will present an exclusive menu created by French chef Julien Montbabut, designed to celebrate the most romantic day of the year in a sophisticated and memorable way.

The Valentine’s Day menu begins with a sequence of appetizers including sea bream with sesame paste and horseradish, spider crab with Savora mustard and yuzu, and coastal prawns with orange and carrot. Main courses follow, such as grouper with ricotta cheese and pumpkin, and Minho-style beef with Jerusalem artichoke and radicchio. The experience concludes with a raspberry and lychee dessert, preceded by a refreshing water break.

As a complement to the gastronomic offering, Le Monument suggests the Bubbly Experience, a pairing of champagnes and sparkling wines conceived by the Head Sommelier, designed to accompany each moment of the menu and intensify the sensory experience, reinforcing the festive character of the occasion.

The Valentine’s Day 2026 menu costs 200 euros per person, with sparkling wine and champagne pairings available for an additional 120 euros. Other beverages can be chosen from the restaurant’s menu at an extra cost.
With this initiative, Le Monument invites you to celebrate Valentine’s Day in an elegant and intimate setting, where haute cuisine, attentive service, and the historic setting of the Monumental Palace combine to create an exceptional evening.

Symington proposes experiences for Valentine’s Day

14/02/2026Symington Family Estates is celebrating Valentine's Day with a series of experiences that includes special menus at the Bomfim 1896, Matriarca and Vinum restaurants, and an exclusive Port wine tasting at the Cockburn's cellars.

This Valentine’s Day, Symington Family Estates invites you to celebrate love through experiences designed for romantic moments, where wine, gastronomy, and heritage take center stage. From the Douro Valley to Porto, passing through Vila Nova de Gaia, the program includes four distinct suggestions, created by the group’s renowned establishments, promising to make the date even more special.
In the heart of the Douro Valley, the Bomfim 1896 restaurant, located at Quinta do Bomfim, presents a special Valentine’s Day menu created by chef Pedro Lencastre Monteiro. Inspired by contemporary Portuguese cuisine and seasonal flavors, the menu includes options such as onion soup with wild mushrooms, almonds, and goat cheese, or Bísaro pork skewers with feijoada flavors, followed by main courses like fish rice with pike-perch, river crayfish, and Carolina rice, or oxtail stew with Portuguese cabbage and chickpeas. The experience concludes with a chocolate, Douro almond, and caramel dessert. The menu is available for €70 per person, with optional wine pairing for €30.

In Porto, Matriarca, the Symington family’s wine and gastronomy establishment, is offering a special dinner served in The Dining Room. The exclusive menu for the occasion begins with an amuse-bouche and welcome Port tonic, followed by duck terrine with a fresh salad and citrus sauce. For the main course, guests can choose between sea bass with lemon rice and oysters or beef Wellington with gratinéed leeks. Dessert celebrates the spirit of the occasion with options such as tiramisu, éclair and galão ice cream or white chocolate and red berry petit four. Dinner is available for €80 per person, including water and coffee, with the option to add wine pairing for €45.

In Vila Nova de Gaia, Vinum, a restaurant resulting from the partnership between Symington and the Sagardi group, presents a carefully designed Valentine’s Day dinner. The menu includes smoked oyster with passion fruit and chili, wild sea bass in textures reminiscent of a Portuguese fish stew, and a Wellington of aged beef tenderloin. Dessert combines dark chocolate parfait with strawberry and kaffir lime, served with Graham’s 20 Years Old Tawny. The experience costs €100 per person, with the option of wine pairing for €35, and will be accompanied by live music.

For couples seeking a different experience, the Cockburn’s cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia present the ‘Blind Tasting’, a special Port wine tasting that includes a guided tour and a sensory challenge to identify three wines. Participants who correctly identify the wines will receive a surprise cocktail. This tasting takes place between February 9th and 15th, at a cost of €26 per person.
With these four offerings, Symington Family Estates reinforces its commitment to wine tourism and gastronomy, celebrating Valentine’s Day through authentic experiences where wine, food, and historic locations come together.

Parras Wines among the most consumed wines in Portugal

14/02/2026The brands Pêra Doce and Mula Velha are ranked in the Top 10 most consumed wine brands in Portugal, according to the ‘inMarket ’25 VINHO’ study conducted by MULTIDADOS, confirming Parras Wines' relevance in the national market.

Pêra Doce and Mula Velha wines feature among the ten most consumed wine brands in Portugal, according to the results of the ‘inMarket ’25 VINHO’ study developed by MULTIDADOS – The Research Agency. The ranking places the Pêra Doce brand in 7th position, with a 5.2% share of total consumption among the analyzed brands, while Mula Velha appears in 10th position with 2.5%, closing the national Top 10.

The study was conducted online between September 21 and October 9, 2025, with consumers residing in mainland Portugal and the islands, allowing for an up-to-date picture of wine consumption habits in the country.

Both brands belong to Parras Wines, a Portuguese wine producer group based in Alcobaça, with a presence in several national wine regions and strong establishment in both the retail sector and the HORECA channel.

The simultaneous presence of Pêra Doce and Mula Velha among the most consumed brands in Portugal reflects consumer confidence and the consistency of accessible, well-defined proposals that have been asserting themselves in the national wine landscape.

Created in 2012, the Mula Velha brand hails from the Lisbon region and distinguishes itself through irreverent communication and an extensive portfolio that includes Harvest, Reserve, Premium, and single-varietal wines. Pêra Doce, launched in 2010, was born in the Alentejo with a proposal based on the region’s traditions and a competitive quality-price ratio, featuring a diverse range of Harvest, Reserve, and Premium references.

Founded in 1999, Parras Wines produces wines in various wine regions of Portugal, including Lisbon, Alentejo, Tejo, Douro, Dão, and Vinhos Verdes, betting on an offering that ranges from daily consumption wines to more prestigious references, reconciling tradition, innovation, and connection to the territory.

Companhia das Lezírias launches special gift box

14/02/2026Companhia das Lezírias marks Valentine's Day with a limited-edition gift box featuring organic wines, themed chocolate, and honey—a curated selection designed for sharing in intimate moments for two.

Companhia das Lezírias presents a special edition for Valentine’s Day, embodied in a commemorative gift box that combines some of its most iconic products in a proposal that blends tradition, authenticity, and meaning.

Available in limited edition, the gift box includes two wine options to choose from—Tyto Alba Rosé or Tyto Alba Touriga Nacional—accompanied by chocolate with phrases alluding to the occasion and honey, creating a combination designed to enhance the sensory experience associated with this celebration.

With this initiative, Companhia das Lezírias reinforces its positioning as a fully organic producer, highlighting its commitment to quality, sustainability, and respect for the territory—pillars that define the brand’s identity.

The Valentine’s Day gift box is available exclusively at Companhia das Lezírias’ official points of sale, at the Adega de Catapereiro shop, and at the Vila Franca de Xira Municipal Market.