The Symington family recently acquired an estate in the prestigious Monção and Melgaço sub-region of the Vinho Verde DOC in northern Portugal – named Casa de Rodas. The Symingtons will produce a range of Alvarinho wines from the 27.5 hectare vineyard with legendary Vinho Verde producer Anselmo Mendes as winemaker. The two families have now decided to create a new company, with equal shareholding, to distribute the wines produced from the property – the first of which will be made this year.

The joint venture will also acquire the renowned Vinho Verde brand, Contacto, produced by Anselmo Mendes. The 100% Alvarinho wine has seen enormous success in Portugal and internationally, and both families believe it has great potential for further development.