“We expect a decrease that could reach 10%, representing around 200,000 litres, compared to the previous season. The causes for this reduction are linked to rain during an unexpected period, which favours the emergence of diseases,” Sara Silva told Lusa news agency.

The Algarve Wine Commission, which certifies, controls, and promotes wines from the Faro district, is organising the second edition of the “Algarve Wine Session” today at a hotel in Vilamoura, in the municipality of Loulé, with 30 producers to promote Algarve wines.

The one-day event showcases Algarve wines, includes wine tastings and demonstrations, lectures, and classes with experts, and is open to the public.

According to the CVA president, last year was "extraordinary for the sector," with a record production of approximately two million litres of wine, "the highest figure" ever recorded in the region.

Currently, the Algarve has 60 registered producers of certified wine—with the geographical indication "Algarve"—operating on a total area of ​​approximately 1,400 hectares, of which approximately 800 are under the direct control of the Commission.

"All these hectares are directly controlled by us, and that's where the grapes for the production of certified wine come from," explained Sara Silva, highlighting the significant growth of the sector over the last decade.

"In 2017, we had around 30 producers, and now we have 60 registered. There has been a doubling of the number in the space of eight years, which represents a significant increase in the number of new economic agents, with around four to five new operators each year," she added.

Exports

According to Sara Silva, Algarve wine exports vary from year to year, representing on average between 12% and 15% of total production volume, with greater emphasis on the American (United States and Brazil) and European markets.

"Europe plays a significant role here due to its relationship with tourism source markets and the fact that many of our producers are of European origin, with privileged channels for placing their wines in these markets," she emphasised.

The Algarve Wine Commission is the entity responsible for certifying and promoting wines with the "Algarve" geographical indication and the Lagos, Portimão, Lagoa, and Tavira designations of origin.