Adega José de Sousa
Discover 2,000-year-old Roman winemaking in Alentejo's heart: clay amphorae, ancient artifacts, and bold talha wines at Adega José de Sousa—a timeless blend of heritage and modern mastery.
Nestled in the heart of Reguengos de Monsaraz, Adega José de Sousa is a historic winery renowned for its ancient clay pot winemaking tradition dating back over 2,000 years to Roman times. Visitors explore didactic vineyards, modern stainless steel facilities with 44 tanks, an archaeology room featuring ancient artifacts including a 5-meter menhir, and the unique Adega dos Potes housing 114 active clay amphorae or talhas. Guided tours culminate in wine tastings of distinctive talha wines—whites and reds fermented in clay—offering a perfect blend of tradition and innovation in Alentejo's wine heritage. Open daily with reservations recommended; tastings start from around €10-27 per person.
A brief summary to Adega José de Sousa
- R. de Mourão 1 7200, Reguengos de Monsaraz, PT
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- Budget
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-1 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-1 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-1 pm
- Thursday 10 am-1 pm
- Friday 10 am-1 pm
- Saturday 10 am-1 pm
- Sunday 10 am-1 pm
Local tips
- Book tours in advance online or by phone; slots fill quickly, especially weekends.
- Opt for the full talha wine tasting to experience the unique clay-fermented flavors.
- Combine with regional cheese and sausage pairings for an authentic Alentejo snack.
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Getting There
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Driving
20-minute drive from Évora; free parking nearby. 1-hour from Lisbon airport. Easy access on main street.
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Public Transport
Bus from Évora to Reguengos (30 min, €5); 10-min walk from station. Taxis €10.
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Tour
Enotourism shuttles from Évora hotels (1.5hr roundtrip, €50+ incl. visit).
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
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Visitor Center
Discover more about Adega José de Sousa
History and Heritage
Adega José de Sousa stands as one of Alentejo's oldest and most traditional wineries, acquired in 1986 by José Maria da Fonseca. Located on the Monte da Ribeira estate, wine production here dates back to at least 1878, preserving a Roman-era legacy of clay pot vinification. The winery produces acclaimed labels like José de Sousa, José de Sousa Mayor, and premium J de José de Sousa, alongside the Montado range, all rooted in local grape varieties.Guided Tour Experience
Tours begin in the didactic vineyard, showcasing key Alentejo grapes used in production. Guests then visit the modern winery with 44 stainless steel tanks for contemporary vinification of reds and whites. The archaeology room displays artifacts unearthed during vineyard planting, including a nearly 5-meter menhir, connecting visitors to prehistoric roots. The highlight is the subterranean Adega dos Potes, featuring 114 clay talhas still used for fermenting special wines, alongside traditional lagares for foot-treading grapes.Wine Tasting and Production
Post-tour tastings feature three talha wines: a white fully fermented in clay, a red fully in clay, and a red partially in clay then barrel-aged. These wines exhibit unique flavors—unexpected colors, aromas, and tastes from the amphora method. Regional pairings like sheep and goat cheeses, sausages, jam, bread, and olive oil are available. Tastings complement the educational journey, emphasizing how clay enhances wine complexity.Visiting Information
Situated on Rua de Mourão 1 in central Reguengos de Monsaraz, the winery operates daily from 10:00-17:30 (extended in summer), with guided tours at 11:00 and 15:00 (17:00 April-October). Reservations are essential; experiences last 90 minutes for 1-40 people. A wine shop offers bottles and local products. Wheelchair accessible in parts, kid-friendly with juice options, pet-friendly.Alentejo Context
In the UNESCO-recognized Alentejo wine region, Adega José de Sousa exemplifies sustainable tradition amid rolling plains. It's ideal for enotourism, combining education, history, and sensory delight in a welcoming, family-run atmosphere.Explore the best of what Adega José de Sousa has to offer
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