Ilha do Pico

Cooperativa Vitivinicola da Ilha do Pico, Açores.

Winemaker Bernado Cabral

Region Açores

Country Portugal

Soil Type Volcanic

Main Varieties Arinto dos Açores, Verdelho, & Terrantez do Pico

It is said that Frei Pedro Gigante planted the first vine on Pico in the late 15th century. It was a similar stormy day in late June 2018 when Raymond landed there, buffeted by the fierce downdrafts generated by the island’s high mountain.

Here’s what Raymond thought about his visit…

“I’d heard many wonderful stories about the Açores, but Pico was an encounter that exceeded any expectation. Stunning setting, geography and landscape, a paradise in mid-Atlantic deep blue. The same went for the vineyards. We met with Bernado Cabral, the coop’s winemaker since 2018, who, with family connections in the Açores, was drawn to Pico’s unique terroir and vineyards.

As for the wines, they were a testament to the enduring nature of the people, not one wine disappointed, and by the end of our stay we were hooked on Frei Gigante, from the Ilha do Pico Coop, alongside charcoal sizzled limpets and grilled Stone Bass.”

So Inspired was Raymond, that on his return ‘Plan Pico’ kicked into action…

www.picowines.net