In 2002, Matias and Maria Antonia Monge began the journey back to their native country of Portugal, after having immigrated to the United States in 1981. Although having met as teenagers in the outskirts of the historical city of Lisbon, the decision of where to settle had been clear for a long time. The quiet and serene landscape of Alentejo had always enticed them, as they were both born in the region and had extended family living throughout the area. While they knew the “where”, their goal quickly became finding the right property that would allow them to create and establish a long-lived dream of owning and running a vineyard.
Vale do Chafariz was purchased in 2002 and represents the beginning of this family’s journey into Portugal’s rich history of wine making. This property boosts amazing views of Serpa’s white-washed landscapes and a century’s old castle. The land’s 112 acres is home to their first vineyard of 20 acres, consisting of such grape varieties as Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Touriga Nacional, Alicante Bouschet, Merlot, Petit Shiraz, Chardonnay, Antão Vaz, Arinto and Viognier.
After 13 years of successful planting, harvesting, and wine making from Vale do Chafariz, it was clear that expansion was needed. So, in 2015, Herdade Santa Maria do Guadiana was purchased. This spectacular 91 acre property overlooks the Guadiana River, an international river that runs along a partial border between Portugal and Spain. On the rolling hills of this property sit endless rows of luscious green grape vines that appear to disappear into the riverbed. Here we can found the grape varieties Shiraz, Alicante Bouschet, Aragonez, Touriga Franca and Petit Shiraz.
The rich soil of both vineyards, the dry heat of the Alentejo sun, and the dedication the Monge family has over their lands, all make Vinhos de Serpa a truly memorable wine.
When Matias and Maria Antonia Monge immigrated to the United States as a young couple, they had gone to seek out the American dream. Through their hard work, sacrifice, and strong belief in a better life for their family, they were able to surpass that American dream by creating a life-long legacy for their family.
