The wine sectors of Madeira and the Azores have strengthened their cooperation in a meeting that addressed key challenges and opportunities for enhancing regional productions.
The gathering, attended by the president of the Azores Vine and Wine Institute, Cláudio José Gomes Lopes, focused on preserving traditional grape varieties, sustainability, quality, certification, and promoting island wines.
Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Fisheries, Nuno Maciel, highlighted the importance of sharing knowledge and experiences to bolster the capacity of producers and institutions, emphasizing that wine is a fundamental element of the islands' identity, culture, and heritage.
Areas for joint initiatives were identified, including technical knowledge sharing, research, innovation, quality control, and promotion. Lopes' visit to Madeira coincides with the grape harvest, a crucial time for direct contact with the sector's current reality on the island.