Madeira's Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Fisheries, Nuno Maciel, hosted the president of the Azores Wine and Vine Institute, Cláudio José Gomes Lopes, during his visit to the island.
The meeting aimed to enhance cooperation between the two autonomous regions in viticulture and wine production. Common challenges and opportunities were discussed, focusing on valuing regional products, preserving traditional grape varieties, sustainability, quality, and promoting island wines.
Maciel emphasized the importance of this collaboration for sharing knowledge and experiences, thereby strengthening the capacity of producers and institutions. Viticulture was highlighted as a fundamental element of the islands' identity, landscape, culture, and heritage.
Areas for joint initiatives were identified, including technical knowledge sharing, research, innovation, certification, quality control, sustainability, and promotion. Lopes' visit also includes tours of farms, wineries, and the ongoing grape harvest in Madeira.