Imagine savouring an award-winning wine while gazing at the immensity of the vineyards, taking part in a traditional grape harvest or simply relaxing in a cosy wine bar… On this route all this and much more is possible!
As we’ve already explained in other articles here on LisbonWineRoutes, the Western Wine Route is made up of three main sections, each with its own identity and charm.
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Second leg of the Western Wine Route
In this article we’ll present the second section of the Western Wine Route, which begins in the municipality of Alenquer, located in the district of Lisbon and one of the most important areas in the Western Region for wine production. Meca, now part of the Union of Parishes of Alenquer, as well as Merceana, now part of the Union of Parishes of Aldeia Galega da Merceana and Aldeia Gavinha, in addition to Abrigada, now part of the Union of Parishes of Abrigada and Cabanas de Torres, are regions rich in historic wineries that offer diverse wine tourism experiences.
The cultivation of vines in the Alenquer region dates back to the Age of Discovery. More than 500 years later, wine production remains inseparable from the centuries-old properties.
The Serra de Montejunto protects the vines from strong winds, guaranteeing an ideal temperature for their development. For white wines, the distance from the sea gives them a slightly salty freshness and the morning breeze dries the night dew. For red wines, these conditions allow the grapes to ripen and develop well.
Get to know some of the estates in this incredible and rich region, highlighting their histories and the ecotourism activities at each one.
A) Quinta do Carneiro
The Quinta do Carneiro is located in the municipality of Alenquer, approximately 40 km from Lisbon, next to the old royal road between Carregado and Coimbra. The property was named after its former owner, the 4th Count of Lumiares, Carneiro e Sousa, who was also president of Portugal’s council of ministers.
Between the 18th and 19th centuries, the estate was dedicated to the production of table and wine grapes. In 1984, Sociedade Agrícola do Carneiro S.A. was set up, planting new vineyards with the aim of producing and bottling wine.
Today, Quinta do Carneiro offers wine tourism experiences, including guided tours and wine tastings. These activities give visitors the chance to learn about the history of the estate, the production methods and enjoy its distinctive wines.
B) Quinta de Pancas
The Quinta de Pancas, founded in 1495, is located approximately 45 kilometres from Lisbon, near the village of Pancas, in the municipality of Alenquer. This region stretches between the Serra de Montejunto and the plains on the right bank of the River Tagus, benefiting from a unique terroir that combines Atlantic influence with mountain protection.
With a total area of 73 hectares, of which 60 are dedicated to vineyards, Quinta de Pancas was a pioneer in the introduction of French grape varieties in Portugal, excelling in the production of wines of the Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay varieties. The proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the protection provided by the Serra de Montejunto create ideal conditions for the maturation of these grape varieties, resulting in intense, complex and elegant wines.
Entre colinas suaves e vilas com alma, o segundo trecho da Rota Oeste dos Vinhos revela um território onde a herança vinícola pulsa em cada paisagem e o tempo caminha ao ritmo do vinho e da tradição.
Quinta de Pancas is recognised for its long tradition in producing quality wines, having received numerous awards in international competitions. It was recently acquired by WineStone, the José de Mello Group’s business platform dedicated to the wine sector, reinforcing its commitment to excellence and innovation in Portuguese viticulture.
C) Quinta de D. Carlos
The Quinta de D. Carlos is a family wine estate located in Alenquer, approximately 30 minutes from Lisbon. Founded in the 16th century by Simão da Cunha, grandson of the navigator and ambassador Tristão da Cunha, the quinta has remained in the same family for 13 generations. The main house, built in the 1650s, was restored in 2003 by the current owner, D. Frederico da Cunha, Marquis of Valada and Count of Caparica, preserving the original architectural design.
In terms of wine tourism, the Quinta de D. Carlos offers various experiences.
Wine tasting: Includes a welcome drink with Viognier and Arinto white wines, a guided tour of the palace’s noble rooms and chapel, lunch at the palace accompanied by the estate’s high-quality wines and, optionally, a walk through the vineyards.
Accommodation: The property has 10 en-suite bedrooms, decorated with antique furniture and works of art from the family, providing an authentic experience of the historical environment of the estate.
Private events: The quinta is a favoured venue for weddings and other events, offering spaces such as a ballroom with capacity for up to 400 people, decorated interior rooms, an interior patio and gardens.
Although there is no specific mention of restaurants and wine bars on site, the gastronomic experiences during wine tastings and events provide visitors with an immersion in the wine culture and history of the region.
D) Quinta da Ribeira/Sociedade Félix Rocha
Located in Meca, Municipality of Alenquer, approximately 50 kilometres from Lisbon, the Quinta da Ribeira is the headquarters of Sociedade Agrícola Félix Rocha which began production in the mid-19th century on the initiative of the great-grandfather of the current owners, Félix Rocha. Since 1991, the fourth generation of the family has invested in restructuring the vineyards and the winery, modernising the winemaking facilities and equipment.
The vineyards are planted on clay and limestone soils, on gentle, steep slopes with sun exposure to the south. You’ll find national grape varieties such as Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz (Aragonez), Fernão Pires, Arinto, Alvarinho and Moscatel, and international varieties such as Merlot, Syrah, Petit Verdot, Alicante Bouschet, Caladoc, Petit Verdot, Cabernet. Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.
Sociedade Agrícola Félix Rocha offers various wine tourism activities, including guided tours of the vineyards and winery, wine tastings and a wine bar. In addition, a tourist accommodation project is under development, which will include eight guest rooms.
E) Casa Santos Lima/Quinta da Boavista
Just 45 kilometres from Lisbon, this estate has been in the Santos Lima family for five generations and offers ideal conditions for producing quality wine. Casa Santos Lima is one of Portugal’s largest wine producers, with a presence in several of the country’s wine regions. In the Lisbon region, Quinta da Boavista stands out, located in Alenquer.
It is also the largest producer of “Vinho Regional Lisboa” and “DOC Alenquer” and in recent years has been one of the most awarded Portuguese producers in the main national and international wine competitions.
The quinta offers a wine tourism structure that includes guided tours, wine tastings, buggy and carriage rides, corporate events, providing visitors with a complete and immersive experience.
To book online any of the experiences available at Casa Santos Lima go to Winalist
F) Cas'Amaro
Cas’Amaro is located in Alenquer, in the heart of the Lisbon wine-growing region, offering a beautiful wine-growing landscape. The property was acquired and rebuilt by Cas’Amaro, transforming an old wine estate in the region.
Cas’Amaro offers various wine tourism experiences, including a contemporary Restaurant & Wine Bar that serves typical Portuguese cuisine, snacks and organic wines. In addition, it offers guided tours, wine tastings and organises private events.
Cas’Amaro also offers accommodation in an old ruined winery. The building has been converted and renovated into a boutique hotel and restaurant. The property offers adults-only accommodation, with a pool terrace, garden and shared lounge.In addition, guests can enjoy a shared kitchen and a peaceful environment, ideal for relaxing and enjoying the surrounding wine-growing landscape.
To find out more about each of CasAmaro’s experiences, visit the Winalist and book online
To make your online reservation at the Wine bar Restaurant just click on this link to access TheFork with our code and search for Casamaro, with this code you get 1000 Yums on your first reservation 🙂
To find out more about Cas’Amaro click here and see the exclusive content about this farm.
G) Quinta dos Plátanos
Located in Merceana, the Quinta dos Plátanos dates back to the 18th century and has been extended over the centuries. It stands out for its architecture with two turrets and a chapel.
In the 19th century, the Viscount of Merceana played a notable role in the fight against phylloxera, contributing to the recovery of Portuguese vineyards. Today, the former stables and stables serve as a tasting room, wine presentations, meetings and tourist activities.
It has a privileged geographical location. Customers have the opportunity to appreciate a rare beauty and enjoy the fresh country air. The site is easily accessible from the A21 motorway and is approximately 50 km from Lisbon, which is about 45 minutes by car.
In terms of enotourism, Quinta dos Plátanos offers experiences such as guided tours of the vineyards and winery, wine tastings and the possibility of participating in private events, such as weddings and other celebrations. The space has garden areas, tent, dance floor, space for civil ceremonies and car park, providing an intimate atmosphere surrounded by nature.
H) Quinta do Monte D'Oiro
The Quinta do Monte d’Oiro is located in Alenquer, in the Lisbon region, about 50 kilometres from the Portuguese capital. This location benefits from clay-limestone soils and a Mediterranean microclimate with Atlantic influence, factors that contribute to the freshness, elegance and balance of its wines.
Known since the 17th century as a privileged terroir, the estate was acquired in 1986 by José Bento dos Santos, who replanted the best plots with castes such as Syrah, Viognier and Petit Verdot, imported from France, in addition to the Portuguese Touriga Nacional and Tinta Roriz. Since 2006, the estate has adopted organic farming practices, reinforcing its commitment to quality and sustainability.
In terms of wine tourism, Quinta do Monte d’Oiro offers various experiences:
Visits and wine tastings: Visitors can tour the vineyards, the winemaking cellar and the barrel room, culminating in a tasting of five wines, including limited editions, accompanied by a regional cheese and sausage board..
Wine meals: The estate organises meals harmonised with its wines, offering a complete gastronomic experience.
For more details on this Thursday’s experiences go to: Winalist
I) Quinta do Convento
The Quinta do Convento is located in Alenquer, approximately 40 kilometres from Lisbon, offering a peaceful escape from the urban environment.
With roots dating back to time immemorial, Quinta do Convento plays a significant role in Alenquer’s winemaking history. Its red wines, deep ruby or intense garnet in colour, reflect the richness and tradition of the region.
For wine tourism enthusiasts, the Quinta offers various experiences.
Accommodation: It offers 7 rooms in the historic area, decorated in the style of the time and guaranteeing every comfort. It also has 4 rooms integrated into the vineyards, providing a complete immersion in the wine-growing environment.
Wine Tasting: Visitors have the opportunity to taste the wines produced on the estate, enjoying flavours that reflect tradition and quality.
Guided Tours: Visits are organised to learn about the history of the Quinta, the winemaking processes and the particularities that make its wines unique.
Partnership with Páteo Velho Restaurant
This restaurant is located in the parish of Atalaia, in Alenquer. Renovated in 2017, the restaurant continues to promote the same concept that surprises visitors and has won several regional gastronomy awards.
Private Events: Quinta do Convento has spaces available for private events, offering a historic and enchanting setting for special occasions.
Quinta do Convento offers an authentic and immersive experience for lovers of wine and history, in an environment that combines tradition and comfort.
To make your reservation online just click on this link to access TheFork with our code and search for Pateo Velho, with this code you get 1000 Yums on your first reservation 🙂
J) Quinta do Pinto, SA
Quinta do Pinto is located in Alenquer, about 50 kilometres from Lisbon and approximately 20 kilometres from the Atlantic Ocean. The property, known as Quinta do Anjo, covers more than 120 hectares and includes a 17th-century manor house adjacent to a traditional winery.
The history of the estate goes back centuries, when the wine produced there stood out in the region, being valued at “Pintos”, the gold coin of the reign of King João V. In addition, a former overseer of the estate was known as Mr Pinto. These coincidences have contributed to the quinta being referred to as “the Pinto”, a name that coincides with the surname of the current owners, the Cardoso Pinto family.
In terms of wine tourism, Quinta do Pinto offers various experiences.
Guided Tours and Wine Tastings: Visitors can take part in jeep tours of the vineyards, followed by visits to the winery, culminating in a tasting of five wines accompanied by appetisers.
Private Events: The quinta offers spaces for private events, such as weddings and other celebrations, providing a unique rural and wine environment.
Outdoor Activities: Visitors can enjoy picnics, bike or jeep rides through the vineyards.
If you want to visit Quinta do Pinto, we recommend booking online via Get Your Guide by clicking here.
K) Quinta de Chocapalha
The Quinta de Chocapalha is located in the Aldeia Galega da Merceana, in the municipality of Alenquer, approximately 45 kilometres from Lisbon, which is about 50 minutes away from the capital, and is a destination that combines tradition, innovation and a passion for viticulture.
The estate brings together a rich family history in wine production, where respect for traditions is combined with innovation in cultivation and winemaking techniques. Over the years, Quinta de Chocapalha has consolidated its reputation by valuing the terroir and sustainable methods, contributing to the excellence of its wines.
Designed to provide a complete experience for wine lovers, the estate offers a variety of activities and services, such as:
Restaurant and Wine Bar: Spaces where visitors can savour dishes carefully prepared with local ingredients, harmonised with the house wines, in surroundings that combine elegance and relaxation.
Accommodation: Accommodation options that allow total immersion in the wine tourism experience, ideal for those who want to make the most of their stay and experience the farm routine.
Guided Tours and Tastings: Tours of the vineyards and production areas that reveal the secrets of viticulture and the art of winemaking, accompanied by tasting sessions that highlight the nuances and quality of the wines produced.
Private Events: The quinta also has spaces for private events, such as celebrations and meetings, providing a unique and intimate setting for special moments.
This quinta offers an ideal refuge for those wishing to escape the urban hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in a rural setting full of charm and authenticity.
To find out more about the Lunch and Wine tasting experiences, we recommend booking online on the Winalist website by clicking here.
L) Devaneio Wines
Devaneio Wines is a family project founded by Nuno Ferreira, located in the Lisbon region, next to the Serra de Montejunto, in the municipality of Alenquer. The property is approximately 60 kilometres from Lisbon, which is about 1 hour’s drive.
The project was born with the aim of producing authentic wines that reflect the terroir of the region, based on minimalist viticulture and oenology practices. The vineyards are spread over small plots at the foot of the Serra de Montejunto, benefiting from the Atlantic freshness, which contributes to the uniqueness of their wines.
In terms of enotourism, Devaneio Wines offers differentiated experiences that allow visitors to know the details of the production of its wines and enjoy tastings. Although it doesn’t have its own restaurants, wine bar or accommodation, it does offer guided tours of the vineyards, where visitors can appreciate the grandeur of the Serra de Montejunto and taste the wines produced.
These experiences offer an opportunity to experience the authenticity of the place, understand the production process and appreciate the quality of the wines.
The Rota Oeste dos Vinhos de Lisboa is a fascinating journey through Portugal’s wine history and tradition. Alenquer and its parishes offer a privileged terroir, where the Atlantic influence and the protection of the Serra de Montejunto create ideal conditions for the production of excellent wines.
The estates that make up this route not only keep the winemaking tradition alive, but also offer unforgettable wine tourism experiences. Whether it’s a simple wine tasting, a cultural immersion or the celebration of special moments, each estate has something unique to offer.
Exploring this region is an opportunity to discover not only extraordinary wines, but also stunning landscapes, historical heritage and authentic Portuguese hospitality. If you want to live an enriching and sensory experience, the Rota Oeste dos Vinhos de Lisboa is an unmissable destination for wine lovers and travellers in search of authenticity.
- TAGS ― Abrigada, Adega, Alenquer, Enoturismo, Mercena, Rota Oeste dos Vinhos, Vinícolas
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