Herdade dos Grous (Cranes Estate), is a charming property that offers tranquillity and preserved nature on more than 1000 ha of which 133 ha are vineyards. Located in the vast plain of the Lower Alentejo, only 18 km from Beja (direction Lisbon), in the heart of splendid gardens with an artificial lake, vineyards, olive groves, cork oaks. Visitors can learn about horse breeding, olive plantations, organic farming and the production of top quality wines such as their red wine, awarded "Best Red Wine of the Alentejo in 2004".
The Alentejo is home to ancient grape varieties such as "Trincadeira" or "Arangonez" that give full-bodied, unique wines. Their earthy flavours and fragrant, spicy accents come from soil rich in magnesium and containing mainly chalk, clay and sand. In the vineyards of Herdade dos Grous, the most advanced viticulture methods and a state-of-the-art drip irrigation system are implemented.
When planting vineyards, traditional winemaking methods were respected while taking into account the climatic conditions of the region. Several grape varieties, including local as well as international red varieties, were selected to be grown on the estate. All grapes are handpicked and undergo a gentle maceration process to ensure superior wine quality. This process is applied to each type of grapes individually while the temperature is closely monitored to maximize the potential of each varietal.
For best ageing results, the wine is cellared under controlled humidity and temperature conditions and stored in French or American oak barrels. Then, the oenologist, Luis Darte, blends the different wines based on their individual qualities.
"Herdade dos Grous" represents the current pioneering spirit of the Portuguese wine business like no other estate.