The Adega Ponte da Barca started its activity in 1963.
After 56 years, the great value of the Region’s grape varieties prevails, based on the excellence of the natural conditions and, above all, on the commitment and dedication of all those who work there, which allows the ongoing production of Vinho Verde and the increasingly recognition for its unique quality among markets and consumers.
Ponte da Barca wines were born in 1963 under the designation “THE ORIGIN MATTERS”.
How has it been over the years to grow a brand of success?
The Adega Ponte da Barca has grown in a discreet but gradual way over the last few years, always carrying the brand designation: “The Origin Matters”, with the sole objective of producing Vinhos Verdes that express the territory of Northwest Portugal, where are located the vines of its about thousand associates.
This winery has always been renowned for its red wines – the Vinhão variety of Ponte da Barca is present in almost every major restaurant in Portugal. More recently, in addition to prestigious red wines, it has sought to add great white wines, based on the Loureiro and Alvarinho grape varieties. Recently, the success of the sales of Sparkling Wine, a single-varietal Loureiro and another Vinhão, in which it was one of the pioneer companies, have proved the plasticity of these native grapes to which its winemakers dedicate.
In 2019 we anticipate the launch of three new products, which we believe will revolutionize the market and further enhance our brand. A brand focused on the foreign market, “500” (see figure below) and a triology of beers in partnership with Letra. It is in this way, with wines that speak for themselves, that we have sought to grow our identity.
Exporting is a major goal of the company. More than one goal is a priority. What markets do you export to?
For about 30 markets, from Asia to America, where we are already very well implemented in the USA, Brazil and Ecuador. Russia, Poland and Germany are three other growing markets.
What is the percentage of exports compared to the national market?
45% export.
What is the importance of SISAB PORTUGAL for the development of your export activity?
It is the meeting point with many of our clients from all over the world and where we have found new business partners. It is a strategic event for the Winery.
What distinguishes the wines of Ponte da Barca?
The vineyard has been flourishing here for over 2000 years. What distinguishes this association of winemakers is the search to guarantee the richness of this past, maintaining the authenticity of the wines, while seeking an increase of innovation in all products and new launches. A result of its privileged location, in which the maritime influence of the Atlantic Ocean is modeled by the three valleys’ throat of the rivers that cross the counties of Ponte da Barca and Arcos de Valdevez: Lima, Vez and Vade; together with the dedication and enthusiasm of the local winegrowers, the wines of the Adega Ponte da Barca are known for their vibrant aromas of fruit with floral notes, moderate alcohol and refreshing qualities – a combination that makes them one of the most versatile partners in gastronomy. They are therefore perfect wines to pair with appetizers, salads, seafood, fish and Asian cuisine.
These wines are born from a long tradition where nature’s beauty remains intact; the fruits of the vines grow in total harmony with civilization. Ranges such as Loureiro, Alvarinho, Arinto, Trajadura, Vinhão and Espadeiro grow on granite soils, cliffs and valleys, where the stillness of river channels and forests full of life transmit freshness and unique flavors to the wine. The wines embody the combination of celebrating friendship and joy with all the pleasure that nature allows.
Nowadays Enotourism also has a say. What are your proposals in this area?
We bet on Nature’s wine tourism, outdoors, with specialized local partners, where we offer horseback riding, 4×4 through the woods and surrounding hills, hiking, rafting, canoeing, etc. all combined with picnic and wines.
What is the significance of the many awards that the wines of the Adega de Ponte da Barca have received?
Internally we do not tend to overrate competitions very much. Of course, we are proud of the awards and we are very grateful to all who contribute within their work in the company, with their effort to achieve this recognition. That’s why we like to communicate them internally. We also see the competitions as a way to encourage us to go further and to be aware of the efforts and evolutions of our partners in the world of wines, which are the other Portuguese producers; together we take the name of the Wines of Portugal further.
