2023 Azores Trip – Sabbatical II – Pico / Madalena

Day in Wine Paradise: Exploring Pico Island Wines

During my stay in Horta, the imposing Pico, a volcanic peak and the highest in all of Portugal, beckoned on the horizon. A short ferry ride away, I embarked on a day trip to Madalena, the charming city and port of Pico.

Pico, a hidden gem in the Azores, boasts a unique wine culture, cultivating grapes in lava fields near the ocean. Disembarking in Madalena, I discovered a town with the typical black (volcanic) and white (limestone) cobblestone streets, houses, and a laid-back atmosphere, especially in the low season of November, that immediately felt inviting.

Renowned for its vineyards, Pico features iconic “currais” (stone-walled enclosures) protecting grapevines from harsh Atlantic winds. The island’s unique wine, shaped by volcanic soil and a maritime climate, was a delight to experience. Eager to indulge, I visited a local vineyard for a memorable wine tasting.

With Mount Pico providing a picturesque backdrop, the vineyard offered a serene ambiance for savoring local wines, predominantly whites but also reds. Each sip told a story of Pico’s terroir and the passion of its winemakers.

My day trip to Pico from Horta was brief but enchanting, providing a glimpse into the winemaking of the Azores. This heritage of Pico left an indelible mark on my travel memories, along with some good sources for bottles i will procure for further enjoyment.