Wine in the Algarve and The Negra Mole Grape Variety
[The Negra Mole grape variety] “has a history and potential to produce wines that are open, elegant, have personality, and are distinctly different from most other regions, in various styles.”
Today’s blog post is a slightly different take on wine in the Algarve and Algarve wineries. It’s an ode to the Negra Mole Grape variety, an indigenous Portuguese grape—the second oldest in the country, in fact—the production of which is limited to the Algarve region.
However, while it may only be found in Portugal’s southernmost region, that doesn’t mean it’s scarce – as you’ll see in the list of options we’ve put together to get your tastebuds tingling! Ordered from closest to LUX MARE to furthest away, we’re providing you with a brief intro to several vineyards that produce Negra Mole wines, which can all be visited for exquisite tastings of this aromatic, fresh, light, fruity wine with low tannins and alcohol levels. Popular among winemakers who seek to embrace a regional identity and local heritage and even more popular among lovers of Algarve wine, these elegant wines are notoriously easy to drink thanks to their delicate structure… as you’ll soon find out!
So, whether you want to plan a day trip to a scenic Algarve winery, you’d rather our concierge bring you a couple of bottles up onto the LUX MARE roof terrace, or you’d like a private chef to cook you up a feast that pairs perfectly with this wine, check out the Negra Mole options available and be sure to make your own list… ranking them in order of which you like best!
Algarve Vineyards that Produce Negra Mole Wines
Vila Alvor – Alvor, Algarve
The wine: Vila Alvor’s vintage 2021 Negra Mole is a floral, fruity wine that expresses the iconic characteristics of the grape variety, with strawberry and wild berry aromas merging with delicate lilac notes to create a velvety texture. A multiple prize-winning wine, it pairs well with tuna carpaccio and octopus dishes.
Location: Near Alvor – a 22-minute drive from LUX MARE
The vineyard: Paying tribute to the Roman and Arabic heritage of the Algarve region, Villa Alvor spans 86 hectares between the Alvor Lagoon and the Monchique Hills. Of its estate, 30 hectares are dedicated to vineyards, with a special focus on Indigenous grape varieties like Negra Mole and Moscatel Galego Roxo. The vineyard’s well-balanced soils and cooler microclimate are reflected in the elegance of the wines produced, and several tasting options are available for those seeking to experience the wines in natural surroundings.
João Clara – Alcantarilha, Algarve
The wine: João Clara’s 2017 Negra Mole is a rich, elegant wine. Smooth and ruby-red, it provides aromas of fresh cherry, raspberry, and subtle herbal notes. On the palate, it is delicate and balanced with a lingering fruity finish. Perfectly paired with grilled fish, shellfish, or light pasta dishes, this wine showcases the best of the Algarve’s winemaking heritage.
Location: Near Alcantarilha – a 31-minute drive from LUX MARE
The vineyard: João Clara is a family-run winery in Alcantarilha, Algarve, established in the 1970s. Now spanning 14 hectares, the estate cultivates varieties like Syrah, Touriga Nacional, and the local Negra Mole. Under winemaker Joana Maçanita, they produce monovarietals and reserve wines, continuing the legacy of Joaquim João and showcasing their commitment to quality and tradition. Tastings and tours of the vineyard can be booked in advance.
Paxá Wines – Silves, Algarve
The wine: Paxá’s 2022 Special Range Negra Mole is a soft ruby wine made from 100% Negra Mole, offering a complex bouquet of floral rose, cherry, and subtle vegetable notes. On the palate, it is smooth, light, and slightly saline, with a fruity cherry flavour. This versatile wine pairs beautifully with grilled sardines, salted tuna steak, or cuttlefish in ink.
Location: Near Lagoa – a 33-minute drive from LUX MARE
The vineyard: Quinta do Outeiro spans 12 hectares of vineyards with a unique terroir, benefiting from clay-limestone soils, its proximity to the sea, and ample sunlight. Combining careful production and a range of grape varieties, their wines have earned numerous awards. Harnessing 40 years of expertise, the family-run Paxá Wines embodies their passion for the land, producing wines that reflect the region’s character in every bottle. From vineyard tours to picnics and options of wine tastings, Paxá promises a memorable day out.
Morgado do Quintão – Estômbar, Algarve
The wine: Morgado do Quintão’s White Negramole 2023 is an elegant, mineral wine that highlights the unique characteristics of the Negra Mole grape variety. Pale yellow with coppery nuances, it offers fresh cherry and brioche aromas on the nose, with a dense texture and depth on the palate. It is excellently paired with oysters and delicate shellfish.
Location: Near Lagoa – a 33-minute drive from LUX MARE
The vineyard: Nestled where the Monchique mountains meet the Atlantic, Morgado do Quintão is a family-owned organic vineyard estate founded in the early 1800s. Committed to reviving winemaking in the Algarve, the estate cherishes its rich history and heritage. Guests can enjoy a variety of experiences, including wine tastings, cooking workshops, and traditional meals under ancient trees. The estate also offers wellness treatments and cosy cottages, creating a perfect retreat in the Algarve.
Arvad – Estômbar, Algarve
The wine: Arvad’s 2022 Negra Mole is a vibrant wine with earthy undertones and aromas of fruity cherry and fresh raspberries, accented by hints of aromatic herbs. Made from 100% Negra Mole, it is manually harvested, fermented for 9 days at 22ºC, and macerated for 3 weeks. The wine is aged for 8 months in 750-litre terracotta amphorae, creating a balanced, fresh profile with notable complexity.
Location: Near Silves – a 34-minute drive from LUX MARE
The vineyard: Visitors to the Arvad winery discover the Algarve’s rich wine heritage, shaped by the Arade River and a Mediterranean climate. Guests can explore the winemaking process and the area’s historical significance, where wine has been cultivated for centuries. With a focus on quality and tradition, Arvad runs a range of tastings and events, including the Arvad Negra Mole Harvest Experience, featuring local delicacies and personalised wine bottles.
Cabrita Wines – Porches, Algarve
The wine: Cabrita’s red 2021 Negra Mole is described as having fruity and delicate aromas, such as strawberries and pomegranate. This gives it a pleasant balance of flavours dominated by its fruity acidity, ending in a well-rounded finish. Cabrita Negra Mole pairs well with grilled fish, white meat, and regional delicacies.
Location: Near Porches – a 35-minute drive from LUX MARE
The vineyard: “A reference in the Algarve due to their innovation and quality”, Cabrita Wines are produced on Quinta da Vinha, a property owned by the Cabrita family for half a century. Having favoured traditional grape varieties from the offset, the winery underwent an overhaul in 2007, seeing more vineyards acquired, a modern winery built with a temperature-controlled barrel room and an exquisite tasting room where various tasting options are held.
There you have it – a starter guide to exploring the Algarve’s rich winemaking tradition. So, whether you simply use our guide to select the bottle you want brought to you or to choose a vineyard to visit for an exquisite tasting of Negra Mole wine, you’ll be able to discover the best of this elegant regional wine right nearby!
