Sustainability is one of the topics on the world’s agenda for many reasons. What not everyone is aware of is that, in its fullest sense, Sustainability does not only include the adoption of a program or actions of an environmental nature, but also extends to the economic and social domains. At Quinta da Raza, as the first producer operating exclusively in the Vinho Verde Region to be certified with ViniPortugal’s National Sustainability Benchmark for the Wine Sector, we are fully aware of this multidimensionality and have set our goals so that we don’t leave behind or neglect any of the aforementioned areas.

In the social sphere, our commitments include providing a healthy environment for our team, encouraging the creation of a group spirit based on responsibility, ethics and respect for others and the environment. 

Equally important is the relationship established with the local community, through, for example, our volunteer program and some measures to support institutions. In this area in particular, we should mention the implementation of the SAUD’ARTE Project, which, through art therapy, seeks to provide the local community with a better quality of life, health and well-being. As part of this project, two editions have already taken place, in 2023 and 2024, of the Vinh’Arte Experimental Painting Workshop, in partnership with TEQUE – Associação Cultura e Artística, where all the participants were called upon to express their creativity and artistic flair, using one of our most iconic indigenous grape varieties, Vinhão, as the main pigment. All the proceeds from these events went to the institutions that are part of the SAUD’ARTE Project.

 More recently, and in anticipation of the forthcoming Christmas season, Quinta da Raza launched another charity campaign. Putting into practice relevant concepts in the area of Sustainability, such as Circular Economy and Waste Management, we decided to give a “second life” to the corks from our wine tastings and wine tourism experiences, challenging the users of the Center for Activities and Training for Inclusion (CACI) of the Basto Social Solidarity Association (ASSB) to make key rings. These will be sold at the symbolic price of €1 in Quinta da Raza’s physical and online stores. The money raised will go to help fund the ‘Garden of the Five Senses‘, an inclusive therapeutic space where CACI users will have the opportunity to explore sounds, aromas and textures that stimulate the senses and provide well-being, regardless of their abilities.

In fact, we also used used corks from our wine tourism experiences for the fall decoration of our wine store. The beautiful and tender pumpkins that you can see in this article's featured image were made by the users of the Casa da Partilha - Encontro de Gerações Day Center in Gandarela de Basto, whom we thank very much for making the space where we receive our customers and visitors more beautiful and welcoming.

This Christmas, when you’re buying presents and selecting wines, don’t miss this opportunity to make a difference! With your contribution we will promote a fairer and more welcoming society for all.

This Christmas, when you're buying presents and selecting wines, don't miss this opportunity to make a difference! With your contribution we will promote a fairer and more welcoming society for all.

Best wishes for an excellent Christmas!