Algarve wine producers are bracing for a 10% drop in production this year, the Algarve Wine Commission (CVA) announced, blaming unstable weather which led to the spread of vine diseases.
“We anticipate a decrease of up to 10%, around 200,000 litres, compared to the previous season. The causes for this reduction are linked to unexpected rainfall, which has encouraged the spread of disease,” CVA president Sara Silva told the Lusa news agency.
Despite the setback, the Algarve’s wine sector remains hopeful and optimistic. This Friday (October 17), the wine commission hosts the second Algarve Wine Session in Vilamoura, Loulé, showcasing wines from 30 local producers. The public event features tastings, demonstrations, expert talks, and classes designed to highlight the region’s wine-growing strengths.
According to Sara Silva, 2024 was a “extraordinary year for the sector”, with a record two million litres of wine produced. The region now has 60 registered certified wine producers, covering 1,400 hectares (800 of which are under direct control of the CVA).
“All these hectares are directly controlled by us and that is where the grapes for the production of certified wine come from,” Silva explained, highlighting the significant growth of the sector over the last decade.
“In 2017, we had around 30 producers and now we have 60 registered. The number has doubled in eight years, which shows great dynamism of new economic agents, around four to five new operators each year,” she added.
Exports remain an important part of Algarve wine’s reach, representing 12–15% of total production, with the United States, Brazil, and European markets leading demand. Europe, Silva explained, benefits from both tourism connections and longstanding channels for local producers.
The CVA oversees certification and promotion of wines under the “Algarve” geographical indication, including the Lagos, Portimão, Lagoa, and Tavira designations of origin, helping the region’s wines gain recognition both at home and abroad.
