Fajã dos Padres: The First Grape Varieties on Madeira

The island of Madeira is renowned worldwide for its natural beauty and iconic wine and boasts a rich viticultural history dating back to the early days of colonization.

One of the most emblematic sites of this history is Fajã dos Padres, a fertile and sheltered piece of land that played a crucial role in introducing the first grape varieties on the island.

In this article, we invite you to discover this historical gem with Tukway, the premier tuk-tuk tour company, and experience the island’s viticultural heritage in style and comfort.

The History of Fajã dos Padres

Fajã dos Padres, located on the southern coast of Madeira, is a natural haven of great beauty. Its name derives from the Jesuit priests who were the first to cultivate the land in the 16th century.

These religious pioneers were instrumental in introducing advanced agricultural techniques and planting the first vineyards in the region.

The location of Fajã is protected by steep cliffs and blessed with a mild and temperate climate, creating the ideal conditions for cultivating high-quality vineyards.

The unique combination of fertile soil and favourable climatic conditions allowed the grape varieties introduced by the Jesuits to thrive.

The First Grape Varieties Introduced

The first grape varieties introduced at Fajã dos Padres were essential for the development of viticulture on Madeira. Among the initial varieties, the most notable are:

Malvasia

Also known as Malmsey, this is one of Madeira’s oldest and most prestigious grape varieties. It produces sweet and aromatic wines with impressive longevity.

Verdelho

This variety produces dry or medium-dry wines, known for their balanced acidity and aromatic complexity. It is one of the most versatile and appreciated grapes on the island.

Sercial

Known for its ability to produce extremely dry and fresh wines, Sercial is ideal for those who prefer wines with high acidity and a distinctive flavour profile.

Boal

This variety produces medium-sweet and rich wines with a more robust body and complex flavours. It stands out for its excellent ageing potential.

The Legacy of Fajã dos Padres

The influence of Fajã dos Padres on Madeiran viticulture is immense. From the first grape varieties introduced by the Jesuits, wine production on the island flourished, gaining international renown. Madeira wine has become one of the island’s most emblematic products, celebrated for its quality and longevity.

Today, Fajã dos Padres remains a symbol of innovation and tradition. Although the property has undergone various changes over the centuries, it is still possible to visit this historic site and appreciate the beauty of its vineyards and landscapes.

Explore Fajã dos Padres with Tukway

There’s no better way to explore the historic Fajã dos Padres than with Tukway. Our tuk-tuk tours offer a unique and comfortable way to experience the scenic beauty and rich history of Madeira.

With Tukway, you can enjoy a personalized tour that highlights the island’s viticultural heritage.

Create Your Own Tour with MyWay

At Tukway, we offer a special feature called MyWay, which allows you to build your own tour. With MyWay, you can customize your journey to include the sites and experiences that interest you the most.

Whether you want to spend more time exploring the Funchal’s city center, or visit any other historical landmarks, or discovering hidden gems around Madeira, MyWay puts you in control of your adventure.

Our knowledgeable guides will take you on a journey through time, sharing fascinating stories about the Jesuits’ contributions to Madeira’s wine industry and the evolution of the island’s vineyards.

You’ll have the opportunity to taste some of the finest wines produced from the same grape varieties that were first introduced centuries ago.

The history of Fajã dos Padres is a testament to the dedication and vision of the first wine growers on Madeira.

The grape varieties introduced by the Jesuits not only laid the foundation for a thriving wine industry but also helped define the island’s cultural and gastronomic identity.

Visiting Fajã dos Padres with Tukway is a journey through time, offering you the chance to appreciate Madeira’s viticultural heritage at its source.

Whether you are a wine enthusiast or simply someone interested in history and culture, a tuk-tuk tour with Tukway to Fajã dos Padres is a must-visit experience.

And with our MyWay feature, you can create a tour that perfectly matches your interests and schedule. Come and discover the deep roots of Madeira wine and celebrate the tradition that continues to flourish in this blessed land.

For more information and to book your tour, visit our homepage. Experience Madeira like never before, with Tukway.