Lagoa’s historic but rundown winery (Adega Cooperativa do Algarve), located along the EN125 road, celebrated 81 years of history with a tribute to its roots and the local community.
On October 30, a ceremony held at the winery’s premises symbolically marked the farewell to the space where, since its foundation, it built a heritage rooted in the Algarve’s wine-making tradition.
The initiative, entitled ‘81 Years of History: Tribute to a Legacy of Tradition and Identity’, was “a moment of celebration and recognition” that brought together employees, partners, producers and representatives of the local community, said Lagoa Council in a statement to the press.
The Chairman of the Board of Directors of Única – Adega Cooperativa do Algarve, Jorge Matias, welcomed those present, emphasising “the importance of preserving the legacy of those who, over eight decades, have contributed to the growth and affirmation of the winery and to the appreciation of Algarve wines”.
This was followed by a multimedia presentation covering the main milestones in the institution’s history, with images, testimonials and documents highlighting the decisive role played by the winery in consolidating the wine-producing identity of Lagoa and the Algarve region.
Highlights of the ceremony included an “emotional” tribute paid to individuals and entities who, through their work and dedication, left a significant mark on the history of the winery. Among those honoured was the Municipality of Lagoa, represented by its mayor Luís Encarnação, through the Department of Culture and Tourism, for its ongoing support in promoting local heritage and wine-making traditions.
During his speech, the mayor emphasised that the Municipality of Lagoa is working to ensure that, in the near future, the winery will once again operate in Lagoa in new premises, adding that the old building will be renovated and will house a Wine Museum, which will include a wine tourism centre dedicated to visits, tastings and tasting experiences.
The closing ceremony also featured remarks by António Cavaco, Chairman of Única’s Governing Bodies, who highlighted “the importance of honouring the past without losing sight of the future”, reinforcing the winery’s commitment to continuing to promote the “quality and authenticity of Algarve wines”.
The event ended with a toast to the future of the Adega Cooperativa do Algarve.
Readers are reminded that last September an announcement was made that the winery had to vacate the space and temporarily move to new premises in Silves.
The cooperative sold its original building to a German investor in 2018 to help settle debts while continuing operations under a lease. The building has been on the market, with the owner recently sending a notice terminating the lease, requiring the cooperative to vacate the premises.
Lagoa council hopes to build a new home for the winery.
