Most people have heard of the Azores archipelago but there’s always a hint of mystery about where it is and why it is. There is even a legend that it is the site of the lost city of Atlantis.
The Azores islands straddle the mid-Atlantic rift where the North American plate and the Eurasian plates are spreading apart. Flores and Corvo are on the west side of the rift and are slowly moving away from the central group of Pico, Faial, Graciosa, Terceira and Sao Jorge.
These islands had an explosive start and vulcanism is all around with large caldeiras, bubbling steaming hot springs and rough black lava fields. Because of this the soil is very fertile and the islands are famous for their flowers, tropical fruit and dairy herds. The cheeses are fabulous !
The islands were ‘discovered’ and colonised by Portugal in 15th century (although its possible Columbus and even the Vikings stopped there before). In a familiar pattern of settlement Portuguese monks built churches and planted vines across the archipelago. The churches are dressed with the local black volcanic rock which forms a vivid contrast with the bright whitewash giving a sharp relief to the villages and towns.
Church in Lajes do Pico
All the islands produce wine but the island of Pico has had the most success, most likely because little else will grow in that stunning but stark volcanic terrain. The vines are planted in sparse enclosures of black volcanic rock giving some protection from the spray coming off the surging Atlantic waves on the nearby shores.
Tasting notes
We generally preferred the whites, although there are reds made from international grape varieties, merlot, shiraz and an indigenous red grape – Isabella.
The wine labels evoke the violent volcanic history of the islands but occasionally the more gentle monastic history.
Pico wines 
Frei Gigante – Blend of Azores white grapes, delicious orange flowers with a streak of citrus and salinity
Basalto – Isabella – savoury olive brine flavours, low tannins. An acquired taste, but pleasant.
Cella Bar – wine bar outside Madelena
Eruptio – Volcanic wines, Arinto dos Açores – Deep golden colour, rich textured, layered, high acidity and long finish
Cella Bar – Eruptio Range
Spot Lavico – wine bar near harbour in Madelena, Pico
Curral Atlantis – Blend of white grapes, quite dry with long finish
Efusivo by Entre Pedras – Blend of Arinto dos Açores, Verdelho and Terrantez. Delicious fruit, fresh acidity balanced by light salinity. Amazing !
