Portuguese wine sector sees professional milestones and regulatory shifts

The Portuguese wine sector is experiencing significant professional and regulatory developments. Tiago Macena has become the first Portuguese professional to earn the prestigious Master of Wine title from the London-based Institute of Masters of Wine. Macena, an enologist working in the Dão and Azores regions, aims to use this distinction to enhance the international communication and sales of Portuguese wines.

In the Alentejo region, the Regional Wine Commission (CVRA) has approved new designations for ‘Vinhas Velhas’ (vines at least 35 years old) and ‘Vinhas Centenárias’ (vines registered before 1931). Additionally, the certification for ‘Vinho de Talha’—a traditional clay amphora winemaking method—has been extended across the entire Alentejo territory to promote premium products.

Other notable industry updates include the launch of Pacheca Trésor, a new rosé from the Dão region, and Menin Porto Tawny 80 Anos achieving a record 98 points at the International Wine Challenge. Meanwhile, producers are addressing structural challenges posed by climate change, specifically prolonged droughts and increasing heatwaves, by exploring genetic diversity and new viticultural techniques to ensure sector resilience.