Luís Cerdeira, shareholder, head oenologist, and managing director of Soalheiro in Vinho Verde, has announced his departure from all business activities at the family winery in a press release. After 30 years at the winery, he feels ready for a new chapter and is now planning to embark on a new project with his son Manuel, who has recently completed his oenology studies.
All shares sold
According to the Portuguese wine magazine Revista de Vinhos, Cerdeira has sold his shares in the winery to his mother, Maria Palmira, and his sister, Maria João, who will now continue to manage the business without him. His previous colleague, Asun Carballo, will take over his responsibilities as oenologist. Cerdeira is quoted in the press release as saying, "I trust in the continuity of management by my mother and sister, as well as the ongoing support from Rui Encarnação, who has been part of Soalheiro's management for three years and will continue to lead the customer relations."
Soalheiro is one of the most significant producers in Vinho Verde. As a family winery in a region dominated by large producers and cooperatives, Soalheiro is known for its innovation. Under Luís Cerdeira's oenological leadership, the winery has gained attention in recent years with many new products, including a Pet Nat and a wine from ungrafted vines. Soalheiro has an estimated annual revenue of €7m and produces around 1m bottles. MS
