Monção and Melgaço, embody a strong relationship of proximity between two municipalities in the far northwest of Portugal. A municipality is far more than an administrative boundary; it is a powerful element of identity, capable of both uniting and distinguishing.

In this case, the symbiosis between two territories with similar yet complementary characteristics — driven by wine — is especially meaningful. This framework highlights the geographical, geological, climatic, cultural and historical features of the Minho River valley, giving rise to a singular terroir, in the fullest sense of the word. Here, history is ever-present: in the remains of ancient hillfort settlements, Roman and medieval traces, fortified walls, manor houses and the architecture born of emigration in the second half of the 20th century — living records for the future.

For generations, fishing in the ancestral river weirs, smuggling, border life, emigration, agriculture and wine shaped the character of the local communities.
Today, a new chapter unfolds. Vineyards dominate the landscape and give the territory a renewed sense of purpose.

Wine has always been part of life here, but over time the Alvarinho grape has gained prominence and economic strength, becoming a cultural driver, a social bond and a shared passion.

Viticulture remains largely family-based, sustained by a multitude of small growers. The arrival of major national wine producers does not appear to dilute this identity, but rather to strengthen it. Without these deep-rooted connections, Alvarinho from Monção and Melgaço would lose its soul — the distinctive character that elevates it to the highest levels of winemaking.