A few minutes from Lisbon, a trip to the heart of Portuguese wine.
If you’re in Lisbon and are looking for a getaway that combines culture, history and good wine, Azeitão is the ideal destination – and no place better represents this combination than José Maria da Fonseca, one of Portugal’s most emblematic and oldest wine houses.
Located about 30 to 40 minutes from Lisbon, in the Setúbal Peninsula region, this family business, founded in 1834, is synonymous with tradition, innovation and excellence in the world of wine.
A legacy of almost two centuries
The history of José Maria da Fonseca begins with the visionary who gave it its name, one of the pioneers in introducing modern winemaking technology to Portugal. Since then, the company has been run by generations of the same family, combining ancestral knowledge with an innovative approach to winemaking.
It is the creator of iconic brands such as Periquita, the first red wine bottled in Portugal, and the famous Moscatel de Setúbal, an internationally renowned fortified wine.
Wine tourism experiences for all the senses
Visiting José Maria da Fonseca is more than just tasting wine – it’s a complete sensory experience combining gastronomy, culture and nature.
Guided Tours of the Historic Cellars
Guided tours take visitors through the old ageing cellars, where centuries-old barrels rest. During the tour, experienced guides tell the story of the family, the wines and the estate’s architectural heritage, including the charming 19th century House Museum.
Lisbon Wine Routes Tip: If you want to visit the wineries with a guide, go to Get Your Guide at this link and book online.
Caves de envelhecimento
Jardins da Casa Museu
Fachada
Commented wine tastings
At the end of the visit, you can enjoy a commented tasting with a selection of the house’s wines – from the fresh and fruity to the more complex and structured, including the famous Muscatels. There are several tasting options, which can be adapted to each visitor’s taste and curiosity.
To book the tasting of special muscatels from Setubal click here
If you are interested in visiting the Casa Museu and tasting 4 premium wines followed by lunch and dinner click here to book on the Winalist website
Picnics in the Casa Museu Gardens
For those who prefer an outdoor experience, José Maria da Fonseca offers picnics in gourmet baskets, which can be enjoyed in its tranquil gardens. A delicious and relaxed way to spend the afternoon with friends or family.
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Do ciclo da Fundação, do Brasil, do Rosé, dos Mercados Estratégicos, até ao dia hoje. Uma história de família com quase 2 séculos de existência, ao longo de 7 gerações. Vinhos com mais de 100 anos, alguns dos mais emblemáticos de Portugal.
Gastronomy and Wine Bar
Although José Maria da Fonseca doesn’t have a restaurant in the cellar, a few metres from the entrance you’ll find the Wine Corner by José Maria da Fonseca Restaurant (Rua José Augusto Coelho nº 1, 2925-542 – Azeitão), which offers gastronomic experiences harmonised with the brand’s wines. In addition, the wine shop’s Wine Bar is the perfect place to enjoy a glass accompanied by regional snacks.
Accommodation and proximity to rural tourism
Although it doesn’t offer its own accommodation, the Azeitão region has several rural tourism options and boutique hotels, many of which collaborate with José Maria da Fonseca for exclusive wine tourism experiences, such as the Hotel Casa Palmela,in the Serra da Arrábida Natural Park, where you can find the perfect balance between comfort and modernity amidst the surrounding lush nature.
Private and Corporate Events
The property is also an enchanting setting for hosting private events, such as weddings, gala dinners, private parties or corporate meetings. With a versatile infrastructure and an atmosphere steeped in history, each event becomes truly unique.
Museum and Wine Shop
The wine shop, part of the Casa Museu, offers all the house’s labels – some of them exclusive and rare. It’s the ideal place to pick up an authentic souvenir and perhaps start your own personal wine cellar. The small museum on site displays historical objects, old labels and curiosities about the evolution of winemaking.
Plan your visit
Address: Rua José Augusto Coelho 11, Vila Nogueira de Azeitão
Distance from Lisbon: Approximately 35 km (easy access via Ponte 25 de Abril or Vasco da Gama)
Reservations: To book the Setubal Special Muscatel tasting click here
If you are interested in visiting the Casa Museu and tasting 4 premium wines followed by lunch and dinner click here to book on the Winalist website
Guided Tours: If you prefer a guided tour, we recommend the Get your Guide experience which can be purchased online at this link
Best time to visit: Spring and fall, but open all year round
A toast to tradition
José Maria da Fonseca is much more than a winery – it’s a living testimony to the history of wine in Portugal. If you’re in Lisbon and want to discover the best that wine tourism has to offer, this is a must. Come and toast with history, wisdom and flavour in every glass.
- Website JMF
- Arquivo pessoal
- TAGS ― Azeitão, José Maria da Fonseca
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