Quinta dos Santos
Quinta dos Santos is more than just a winery; it's a family-run testament to Portuguese heritage and a celebration of the Algarve's unique terroir. Founded in 2016 by Eugene and Ann dos Santos, this idyllic estate nestled between Carvoeiro and Ferragudo embodies a deep-rooted commitment to sustainability, artisanal craftsmanship, and a profound respect for the land.
The dos Santos family, with roots in Lisbon and a vibrant past in South Africa, fulfilled a lifelong dream by returning to Portugal. Their vision: to create a multifaceted destination that reflects their passion for Portuguese culture. Today, Quinta dos Santos encompasses vineyards, an artisanal brewery, a stylish restaurant, and charming guest accommodations, all seamlessly integrated within the estate's breathtaking landscape.
The heart of Quinta dos Santos lies in its vineyards, planted in 2017 on three hectares of clay-limestone soils just a stone's throw from the Atlantic Ocean. This exceptional terroir nurtures a diverse selection of indigenous Portuguese grape varieties, including Touriga Nacional, Negra Mole, Sousão, Bastardo, Malvasia Fina, Arinto, Verdelho, and Esgana Cão. These vines, carefully tended by the dos Santos family, thrive in the Algarve's sunny climate, tempered by cooling Atlantic breezes.
Beyond the vineyards, Quinta dos Santos is a testament to sustainable practices. The estate embraces a holistic approach, preserving existing olive groves, almond trees, and carob while carefully restoring ancient irrigation canals. This harmonious coexistence with the natural environment reflects the family's unwavering commitment to preserving the Algarve's unique ecosystem.
The dos Santos family actively participates in every facet of the estate's operations. Eugene and Ann, with their sons Greg and Kyle and daughter-in-law Elayna, bring a wealth of experience and a shared passion for creating exceptional wines and a memorable guest experience. This dedication to family and tradition is woven into the very fabric of Quinta dos Santos, creating a truly authentic and welcoming atmosphere.
At Quinta dos Santos, the focus is on crafting wines that truly reflect the soul of the Algarve. By embracing traditional winemaking techniques and incorporating modern innovations, the estate aims to produce wines of exceptional quality, showcasing the unique character of the region's terroir. This commitment to excellence, combined with a deep respect for Portuguese heritage and a genuine passion for sharing their story, ensures that Quinta dos Santos will continue to be a cherished destination for wine lovers and discerning travelers for generations to come.
Available Products
David Ferreira-Jorge - Winemaker
Born in South Africa as the world’s first set of triplets born to a surrogate (his own grandmother!), David Ferreira-Jorge’s life has been anything but ordinary.
After spending his youth in South Africa, he moved to his father’s homeland; Portugal for university.
With a strong academic foundation, David earned a B.Sc. from the University of Porto and served in the Portuguese Army, achieving the rank of Platoon Sergeant. He then pursued a degree in Dietetics and Nutrition at the University of the Algarve, completing internships at prestigious institutions like S.L. Benfica and the Centro de Saúde.
While his academic and professional pursuits were diverse, wine has always been a passion. Summers were spent honing his palate as a wine waiter/sommelier in local restaurants.
After a successful career as a clinical dietitian, David’s love for wine led him to a dramatic career change.
In 2021, he completed a postgraduate diploma in enology, embarking on a new chapter at Quinta dos Santos as the resident winemaker and brewer, David oversees all aspects of production, from grape to glass. He skillfully balances the art and science of winemaking, with regular guidance from esteemed Professor/Consultant Mario Andrade.
David’s unique background, infectious enthusiasm, and a captivating blend of Portuguese and South African accents make him a truly unique figure in the Algarve wine scene. Married with two children (one born on his birthday!), David brings a vibrant energy and a deep connection to the land to every bottle of Quinta dos Santos wine.
